How Chiropractic Treatment Can Improve Your Sciatica
Sciatica is more common than you might think, with up to 40% of American adults getting this condition at least once in their lives. The risk for sciatica increases with age, and people with back pain are especially susceptible.
Your chiropractor offers non-invasive, pharmaceutical-free sciatica treatments.
Causes and Symptoms of Sciatica
The sciatic nerve runs from the lower back down through the hips, buttocks, and legs. Sciatica occurs due to pressure on this nerve – for example, due to a herniated disc or vertebral misalignment.
The hallmark of sciatica is pain that radiates from the lower back to the buttocks and along the legs. The sensation can be burning, like an electric shock. It may get worse after you’ve been sitting still.
Most people only experience sciatica symptoms on one side of their body. Other sciatica signs include numbness, muscle weakness, or tingling in the leg, possibly radiating to the foot.
How a Chiropractor Can Improve Sciatica
Chiropractors treat musculoskeletal issues that commonly cause sciatica. They use various techniques to address the immediate symptoms and improve spinal health, minimizing recurrence.
Spinal Adjustments
The spine consists of vertebrae, precisely stacked on top of one another with gel-like discs in between. If a vertebra shifts out of place, it may place pressure on the sciatic nerve.
The jelly-like interior of a spinal disc can also protrude, resulting in an injury known as a herniated disc. Herniated discs are one of the most common causes of sciatica.
With a spinal adjustment, chiropractors apply controlled force to shift vertebrae back into place, correcting spinal misalignment.
Soft Tissue Therapy
Misaligned vertebrae or a herniated disc can also strain surrounding muscles, tendons, and ligaments. The resulting inflammation may place further pressure on the sciatic nerve. Soft tissue therapies like chiropractic massage decrease inflammation, alleviating sciatica symptoms.
Therapeutic Exercises
Unless the root cause of sciatica – such as spinal misalignment – is addressed, the issue is likely to recur. Chiropractors can recommend therapeutic exercises to minimize this risk.
Sciatica Treatment in Vancouver, WA
Back to Health Chiropractic and Massage provides diverse sciatica treatments, including spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and therapeutic exercises. We aim to not only alleviate your immediate discomfort but to change your lifestyle to ensure you don’t experience sciatica again.
Call our office at (360) 253-4285.
Posted In:
Chiropractic Care
Sciatica Treatment
