Sciatica - What You Need To Know + Tips For Relief

Have you ever had pain radiate from your low back, through your hips, and down one leg? If so, you may have experienced sciatica.

WHAT IS SCIATICA?

The sciatic nerve runs down the length of each leg, starting in your low back and ending at the heels of your feet. Sciatica is a term used to describe the pain caused by irritation of that nerve.

Sciatica is different from low back pain in that it results from the sciatic nerve, rather than the spine. This nerve serves an important function, affecting the hamstrings, calf muscles, lower leg muscles, and some foot muscles. In many cases, the pain gets worse with twisting, bending, sneezing or coughing.

WHAT CAUSES SCIATIC PAIN?

Researchers estimate that 90 per cent of cases are caused by a herniated disc where the nerve root is compressed – something that may occur as a result of an injury, or age-related wear and tear. 

Other possible causes include lumbar stenosis, or piriformis syndrome.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF SCIATICA?

Patients most often complain about pain radiating down the back of their leg, reducing their mobility.

WHO IS MOST AT RISK FOR SCIATICA?

There are certain risk factors that increase the chance of developing sciatica.

These include:

·         Age

·         Height

·         Mental stress

·         Cigarette smoking

In addition, certain occupations are predisposed to sciatic nerve pain, including machine operators and truck drivers.

HOW IS SCIATICA DIAGNOSED?

When a patient complains of pain radiating down their leg, a chiropractor will typically conduct a full history and physical examination to determine whether the sciatic nerve is to blame.

HOW IS SCIATIC TREATED?

When sciatica strikes, there are conservative chiropractic treatment options available.  These may include:

·         Mechanical traction

·         Spinal manipulation and mobilization

·         Soft tissue techniques

·         Laser therapy

·         Acupuncture

·         Ice/heat application

·         Electrotherapy

·         Rehabilitative exercise

 

WHAT CAN YOU DO AT HOME?

Talk to your chiropractor to ensure you are doing everything you can to improve your condition at home. He or she may recommend one or more of the following:

·         Use hot and cold packs for comfort

·         Avoid sitting or standing for long periods

·         Practice good posture

·         Improve your core strength through exercise

·         Gently stretch out your lower back and hamstrings

·         Take a walk regularly, go swimming, or try aqua fitness

·         Use the proper technique when lifting heavy objects

HOW CAN YOU PREVENT SCIATICA?

You can reduce the chances of developing sciatica by exercising regularly and paying attention to your posture.

Try the following exercises if you’re looking for inspiration, but the most important thing is to find an activity you enjoy:

·         Walking

·         Jogging

·         Swimming

·         Cycling

·         Dancing

·         Strength training

·         Yoga

·         Tai Chi

·         Pilates

Chiropractors are spine, muscle, and nervous system experts who provide effective treatment to promote health, alleviate pain, and improve your quality of life.

If you’re struggling with sciatica and want relief, visit one of our chiropractors today.

And remember – you can always ask questions and take an active role in your recovery.

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