Sciatica describes persistent pain felt along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back, down through the buttock, and into the lower leg. The Sciatic Nerve is the longest and widest nerve in the body. Sciatic pain usually develops as a result of general wear and tear and use of the lower spine, not as a result of injury.
The most common symptoms of sciatica are a shooting, tingling, burning, or aching sensation, typically on one side of the body that radiates down the path of the sciatic nerve. Other symptoms may include numbness, tingling, or weakness of the affected leg or foot. Sciatica can worsen after prolonged sitting, bending, or other sudden movements.
Chiropractic adjustments offer a non-invasive, drug-free treatment option for sciatica. The goal of chiropractic treatment is to restore spinal movement, thereby improving function while decreasing pain and inflammation. Depending on the cause of the sciatica, your chiropractor may also use ice/heat therapy, TENS, ultrasound, and rehabilitation exercises in addition to chiropractic adjustments in your treatment for sciatica.
While it is not always possible to prevent sciatica, here are some suggestions to improve spinal health and reduce the risk of sciatica:
- Maintain a healthy diet and weight
- Exercise regularly
- Maintain proper posture
- Use good body mechanics when lifting
