Sciatica pain can be debilitating for those who live with it. The symptoms can be constant, or they can come on suddenly and painfully. Sciatica is a treatable condition, and there are many treatment options your local chiropractor and massage therapist can provide to help you get back to living a pain-free life.
What is sciatica?
Sciatica is pain that emanates from the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back into the lower legs. Most patients only experience sciatica symptoms on one side of their bodies, but some people do suffer from varying levels of sciatica symptoms in both hips and legs.
It is usually caused by compression of the sciatic nerve in the discs, typically after a disc injury, disc compression, or herniation. It can also be caused by spinal stenosis, which is usually caused by aging or when degenerative disc disease is present.
When the discs become herniated or compressed, they press down on the nerves that run through the spine. Lower herniations of discs often affect the sciatic nerve, and this leads to the pain, numbness, and other complications associated with sciatica. Sciatica sometimes resolves on its own, but in most cases, it needs to be addressed by a healthcare professional, including a chiropractor.
Who is at risk for developing sciatica?
Anyone with a history of degenerative disc disease, scoliosis, spinal stenosis, or other lower back and hip issues may be at risk for developing sciatica. Pregnant women are also at risk, as the weight of the baby and shifting internal structures put more strain on the lower back and discs.
What are the symptoms of sciatica?
The symptoms of sciatica can vary, but usually, they include:
- pain in the lower back
- pain while sitting, especially for sustained periods
- pain in the hips, buttocks, or upper thigh
- a burning or tingling sensation in the leg, even down into the lower leg
- shooting or constant pain in the legs and buttocks
- numbness or weakness in the leg, making it difficult to stand or move the leg and foot
In severe cases, sciatica can cause a loss of control over one’s bowels and bladder because the nerve signals are being interrupted by the compression of the sciatic nerve.
What are the treatments options for sciatica?
Luckily, there are several options for treatment of sciatica. The first step you should take if you suspect you have sciatica is to seek out the care of your local chiropractor. Your chiropractor can help you develop stretching routines, in addition to in-office manipulation of your lower back, to help you strengthen your lower back muscles and straighten your discs.
Another option is massage therapy for sciatica pain. Massage therapy can gently loosen the tightening of the muscles around the problematic areas in your spine. The loosening of these muscles will allow the spine to shift back into place and reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Conclusion
Sciatica pain doesn’t have to be something you suffer with for the rest of your life. Seek out chiropractic care and massage therapy for sciatica pain in Garden City, MI today.
