Sciatica is a common condition that can cause pain, numbness and tingling in the lower back, buttocks and legs. It is caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back down to your feet. The most common symptom of sciatica is a sharp shooting pain that radiates down one leg. Other symptoms may include numbness, tingling or weakness in the affected leg.
Chiropractic care focuses on treating the musculoskeletal system and spine to reduce pain and improve mobility. A chiropractor will use spinal manipulation techniques to reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve. They may also recommend lifestyle changes such as exercise, posture corrections and stretching to help manage sciatica symptoms. Read on for more information about sciatica and how the professional team at The Backstory Chiropractic can help.
What causes sciatica?
There are multiple causes of the symptoms of sciatica, but they all involve some degree of impact to a nerve in or around the spine. These causes include:
What type of care can a chiropractor provide for sciatica?
What your chiropractor can do for sciatica will vary depending on the specific nerve that is injured and the underlying cause of your sciatica. Certain treatments will be appropriate for some patients and alternative treatments will be appropriate for others. Your chiropractor may use techniques like chiropractic adjustments (manipulation), joint mobility techniques, targeted massage, stretching, dry needling (acupuncture) and rehabilitation exercises. These techniques have been proven to be effective in reducing lower back pain by scientifically controlled trials and are recommended by international clinical practice guidelines.
Other symptoms can include:
- Back Pain
- Pins and needles or numbness in the leg or foot
- Muscle weakness of the lower limb
- Saddle area numbness [A Medical Emergency]
- Loss of control of bowel and/or bladder [A Medical Emergency]
