What is Sciatica?

Sciatica is pain in the large sciatic nerve that runs from the lower part of the spine and down the leg. It’s a common condition that results when the nerve is injured, inflamed, or compressed. Causes include trauma and degenerative diseases like arthritis. Most often, the culprit is a herniated disk that presses on the nerve root. These disks are pads between your spinal vertebrae that provide protection from friction and impacts.

Symptoms may include pain, numbness, or weakness that radiates down your leg and can even affect your feet. The pain may begin suddenly or build up over time. It usually feels worse in the leg than in the back, and the effect many people experience is of sharp jolts or a burning sensation.

Common risk factors include: 

• Aging, which wears down your spine’s bones and disks
• Weakness in the core muscles that must support your lower back
• Being overweight, which puts extra stress on back muscles
• Frequent heavy lifting
• Sitting for long periods of time
• Previous back injury
• Diseases such as osteoarthritis
• Unhealthy lifestyle habits like smoking and lack of exercise

Natural Remedies Versus Drugs and Surgery for Sciatica Pain

The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in your body; experiencing pain there can be disruptive to daily life tasks. People may assume that drugs are the quickest fix for their discomfort, unaware of the pitfalls of invasive measures that don’t resolve the source of pain. Surgery is another type of treatment for sciatica, but it’s considered a last resort that can usually be avoided.

Fortunately, most people with sciatica get better with conservative treatments over time. Ice or heat packs, gentle stretches, and chiropractic adjustments are some important parts of a holistic, safe treatment plan.

Chiropractic Care for Sciatica

Research has increasingly shown the safety and effectiveness of chiropractors’ natural approach in treating sciatica and other types of back pain. 

Spinal adjustments bring the spine into alignment, relieving painful pressure on nerves. In one study, subjects suffering from local and radiating back pain were divided into two groups. One group received spinal manipulations, while the other was given simulated manipulations. Researchers found that genuine manipulations provided a better result in relieving acute back pain and sciatica symptoms. 

When it comes to sciatica, your chiropractor can complement care from your medical doctor, helping to diagnose, heal, and even prevent pain without medication. 

Schedule Your Complimentary Appointment at Eastern Oklahoma Chiropractic

Our goal is to alleviate your pain and help you reach your health potential. Call our Broken Arrow office today at 918-940-4630.

The post A Natural Solution for Sciatica: Chiropractic Care first appeared on Chiropractor Broken Arrow.