Chiropractic to help treat sciatica
Chiropractic to help treat sciatica
Sciatica is a very common complaint we see on a regular basis. The symptoms of sciatica can be very painful and even debilitating. Luckily our experienced chiropractors are here to help.
What is sciatica and why is it so painful?
Sciatica is the name given when pain, numbness, tingling or weakness is found on the sciatic nerve. These symptoms are caused by a compression of the nerve usually at its root which is located in the lower back. The sciatic nerve, which is the largest nerve in the body, runs from the lower back, down the leg all the way to the feet. Therefore, when problems arise at the root of the nerve it can cause symptoms further down the nerve. Sometimes it can cause different sensations in different areas at the same time.
Common symptoms
Sciatica can present many different symptoms. Some of the more common symptoms include:
- Pain in the lower back
- Hip pain
- Pain in the back of the leg that worsens when sitting
- Burning/tingling in the leg
- Pain when standing from a seated position
- Weakness or numbness when moving your leg
- Chiropractic techniques used to treat sciatica
Chiropractors will first give a full assessment to determine if the pain you are getting is related to the sciatic nerve or if it is being caused by another area in the body. The most common cause of sciatica is from a bulging or herniated disk which compresses the nerve. Other issues that can cause sciatica include; bone spurs, a narrowing of the spine or injury. After an assessment has been carried out and our practitioners are happy that chiropractic care is the most appropriate treatment, then treatment will begin. Chiropractic adjustments may be used to help free restricted joints. Stretching or muscle releasing techniques may also be used and exercises will be given to help complement treatments.
Can stretching at home help with sciatic pain?
Absolutely, as with many other joint and muscle problems in the body stretching can be very beneficial. It not only helps to free restricted areas of the body, but also can give you symptomatic relief to help ease pain. Below are some links to stretches that our chiropractors often recommend that can be beneficial for those suffering from sciatica.
Reclining pigeon pose – https://m.wikihow.fitness/Do-
Forward pigeon pose – https://m.wikihow.fitness/Do-
Hamstring stretch – https://m.wikihow.fitness/
We hope that you have found this information useful. If you are struggling with sciatic pain don’t just put up with it. The chiropractors at our Sheffield clinic are always hear to help.
