In the United States alone, over 3 million people suffer from the effects of a condition known as sciatica. This condition causes intense and persistent pain that starts from the spinal region and often moves down the back of the legs. In many cases, the pain associated with sciatica is debilitating to the point that simple things like sitting and standing become impossible.
Five nerves make up the sciatic nerve. These bundled nerves start by traveling from the sacral foramen and lumbar spine to the piriformis muscle, located in the buttocks. At that point, the nerves come together as a group. This united bundle is the sciatic nerve, the longest in the entire body.
In addition to running down the back of the legs, the sciatic nerve connects major muscles to the spinal cord. This is why pain commonly is felt in both the lower back region and the legs on the backside. The result of pressure on the sciatic nerve is pain, numbness, muscle weakness. The good news is that chiropractic care for sciatica brings much-needed relief.
Causes of Sciatica
Although Sciatica is still somewhat misunderstood, medical professionals agree that irritation at the root of the nerve is what causes a variety of symptoms. Some of the more common causes of sciatica include:
- A slipped or herniated disc
- Spinal stenosis
- Wear and tear on lumbar vertebrae
- Piriformis syndrome, which causes the buttock muscles to tighten or spasm
- Spondylolisthesis, which involves the slippage of a vertebra
Seeking Chiropractic Care
Although some people turn to traditional medicine to get relief, an increasing number of sufferers have discovered the incredible benefits associated with chiropractic care for sciatica. Using appropriate and gentle manipulation, a licensed chiropractor is able to realign the spine. Because this reduces or eliminates pressure on the sciatic nerve, symptoms improve dramatically.
Chiropractic care for sciatica is conservative, which prevents the development of additional irritation at the nerve root. Instead of invasive treatments, including surgery, chiropractic care is a viable alternative. In fact, several studies show that with chiropractic care for sciatica, some people experience as much as 60 percent improvement. In addition, the level of relief that chiropractic care provides equals that achieved with surgery.
In reality, the condition of the spine plays a critical role in overall health. A misaligned spine can cause disease, sickness, and even decline in health and wellness. Chiropractic care performed by a professional chiropractor who specializes in treating sciatica is an excellent way to reduce or eliminate pain, tingling, weakness, and numbness.
Regardless of the cause or the degree of symptoms, chiropractic care for sciatica is safe and effective. Trying to work, tend to children, or just enjoy normal activities is nearly impossible for people who suffer from sciatica. Although some might get temporary relief from over-the-counter or prescription medications, as well as different therapies, the greatest relief comes from chiropractic care.
Back and Body Medical is a New York-based business that helps people with an array of problems, including sciatica. To take back control of your life, please give us a call. We will be happy to assess your situation and provide the best treatment available.
