Sciatica is characterized by pain in the lower back or buttock that radiates into one or both legs. Sciatica pain is also commonly associated with burning, numbness and tingling sensations. The pain is often felt as a sharp, jabbing pain. Muscle weakness is another frequent symptom of sciatica that requires careful monitoring.
Typically, sciatica is made worse by bending, lifting, sneezing and coughing.
Sciatica is a common problem for manual workers, sedentary office workers and is particularly prevalent during pregnancy.
Causes
Sciatica nerve pain is caused by pressure on the sciatic nerve – a very large nerve that originates from the lower lumbar spine and travels through the buttock into the leg as far as the back of the knee.
Pressure on the Sciatic nerve can result from a number of reasons including:
- spinal misalignments
- herniated disc, disc prolapse
- piriformis muscle tightness
- poor posture – wearing high heels, prolonged sitting, poor mattress
- poor lifting technique and poor bending habits
- osteoporosis or osteoarthritis
Diagnosis
Since there are many disorders that can cause sciatica, your Chiropractors first task is to determine the exact cause of your sciatic nerve pressure.
After thorough history a specific spinal, orthopaedic and neurological examination will occur. Special diagnostic imaging investigations such as x-ray, CT scan or MRI scan may also be required to accurately diagnose your sciatica.
Treatment
Treatment will involve removing the pressure on the sciatic nerve. Your chiropractic care aims to achieve this by reducing nerve pressure caused by poorly moving spinal joints as well as easing muscular tension in the lower spine, buttock and leg. Specific techniques will help to restore joint movement and address muscles and fascial related problems. In addition to this, you will be given a specific rehabilitative stretching and strengthening and postural program to prevent reoccurrence.
If you are suffering with sciatica we can help. Call (02)47517551 Springwood Chiropractic today...