Sciatica Relief

Nerve pain can be severe and debilitating. Pain can come from various sources and the intensity can vary. One nerve that can cause significant pain is the sciatic nerve. This is a large nerve that begins in the lower back and goes down the back of each leg. The pain associated with this nerve is call sciatica. The most effective treatment to relieve sciatica pain, which we use in our office, is the chiropractic spinal adjustment, ice or cold therapy, heat or ultrasound, muscle stimulation (TENS), cold-laser therapy.

The pain associated with sciatica can extend from the lower back to the toes or anywhere in-between. And the pain can be from irritating to debilitating. Just as the area and severity of pain can vary so can the symptoms. These can range from continuous rear pain on one side to shooting pain making it difficult to stand. The leg and/or foot on one side can be affected causing weakness, numbness, or difficulty when moving or there could be a burning or tingling in the leg. All of these symptoms are coming from the lower lumbar and lumbosacral spine which has become irritated.

Although sciatica is an irritation of the sciatic nerve there are various causes. Some are medical including lumbar spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis (one vertebra slips over another), spinal subluxation (a misaligned vertebra) and pregnancy. There are also some lifestyle causes including obesity, lack of exercise, high heel wearing, and a too soft mattress.

Because sciatica can be caused by a variety of conditions, proper diagnosis is essential. Our chiropractors at Chiropractic Works regularly treat sciatica and are familiar with all of the causes and treatments. Chiropractic treatment is considered holistic, using no surgery or drugs, but merely providing treatment which aids the body in healing itself. It has been shown to be effective for neck pain, back pain, headaches and migraines, as well as a large number of other conditions. Because chiropractic treats the spine and nervous system, which supplies the entire body, its effects can be far-reaching.

Based on the cause, there are various options for treatment. The treatment plan may include more than one option since some can work together to give better results. Call us (410) 321-7210

Keep reading for more detail around our treatment approach for Sciatica:

One of the simplest treatments that can be added to the adjustment is using ice or cold therapy. Using cold may help decrease the inflammation that will help the pain.

Heat can be used by means of ultrasound. This method infiltrates deep into the tissues with the use of moderate heat. If you are having muscle spasms, this treatment is useful. It can also help with any cramps, inflammation, and/or stiffness.

A machine that is used to stimulate muscles called TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) could be an option. This is treatment using electrical current of various degrees. This option is also available for home use under the chiropractor’s monitoring.

One of the most advanced therapies we have available for sciatic is our cold laser. This can provide a significant amount of relief in a short amount of time. Although it does not get to the cause of the problem itself, it can provide a quick means of reducing symptoms and swelling.

Since chiropractic care is holistic, treatment may include lifestyle changes. Weight and exercise have a bearing on sciatica, so diet and nutrition will be discussed. A home exercise program may be designed to assist in the treatment process. Losing weight and regular exercise will have a positive effect on controlling the pain from sciatica.

When developing a treatment program, our chiropractor will examine not only your body but also your lifestyle. Your entire medical history should be relayed with all current conditions and medications. Also all activities you participate in as well as eating habits should be discussed.

Knowing your history will assist the doctor in developing a treatment program to treat the whole person. This will include office sessions and exercises to be done at home on a regular basis. Suggestions will be made regarding diet and what improvements can be made.

This total treatment program will improve your sciatica as well as your total body and lifestyle. By receiving proper chiropractic care and making a few changes you will be able to enjoy an active lifestyle to fit your liking.

To find out more about how chiropractic can relieve your sciatica pain, please call our office today and request an appointment to speak with one of our experienced doctors.

Take charge of your health today and schedule a consultation at (410) 321-7210. Don’t forget to take advantage of our New Patient Special!