Sciatica is pressure on the Sciatic nerve which results for a number of reasons including:
- Spinal misalignment’s
- 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
Sciatica is characterized by pain in the lower back or buttock that radiates into one or both legs. Sciatic pain is 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.
Causes
Sciatic nerve pain is caused by pressure on the sciatic nerve which is 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. 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.
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 a thorough history check, a specific spinal, orthopedic and neurological examination will occur. Special diagnostic imaging such as x-ray’s, a CT scan or MRI may also be required to accurately diagnose 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 muscle and fascial related problems. In addition to this, you will be given a specific rehabilitative stretching and strengthening and postural program to prevent re-occurrence.
For more information contact:
Laurelle Caristo at Springwood Chiropractic
www.springwoodchiro.com.au