Sciatica is an uncomfortable condition that is generally felt in the lower back. Sciatic nerve pain can limit your full movement. One of the best ways to deal with sciatica is with chiropractic treatment. Here are some things you need to know:
What Is Sciatica?
The sciatic nerve is located between the lower back and down into the buttocks and the back of the legs. This nerve is the longest one in the body. The sciatic nerve is the part of the body that controls the lower leg muscles. Sciatica is the condition in which the sciatic nerve causes you pain.
Those who suffer from sciatica will feel tingling, numbness, aches, and a burning pain in these areas. Most people who suffer from sciatica only feel pain on one side. You will notice the pain increase after prolonged periods of sitting, major physical activity, or sudden movements.
How Can a Chiropractor Help Sciatica?
The first step is to get a proper diagnosis in order to get treatment. In many cases, sciatica is misdiagnosed as other problems, such as muscular pain. There are conventional treatments available, but most of these measures will simply cover up the pain temporarily rather than addressing the issue. Conventional treatments consist mostly of muscle relaxers or other forms of pain medication. You may also be offered a few sessions of physical therapy. In serious cases of pain, you might be offered surgical procedures.
A chiropractor will find the root cause of the pain and determine whether or not you are suffering from sciatica. Chiropractic care will help relieve the pressure on the sciatic nerve to prevent your pain. The chiropractor will work with you on a treatment plan that will include spinal manipulation, massage, hot and cold therapy, and any other treatments that will be helpful to you.
What Are the Benefits to Chiropractic Care for Sciatica?
Unlike conventional treatment methods, chiropractic care is a non-invasive treatment that does not include the use of pain medication. Chiropractors also work with patients on lifestyle alterations to help deal with the condition. Some of these include posture training, health and nutrition coaching.
Can You Prevent Sciatica?
There is not always a way to prevent sciatica from occurring, but there are some things you can do to help prevent periods of sciatic inflammation. Be sure to always practice good posture when you sit. Try to avoid sitting for long periods of time. If you have to be in the car for a long time, be sure to take frequent breaks. Also, try to get regular non-strenuous exercise and maintain a healthy weight.
Contact a local office for more information about how a chiropractic clinic can help you treat sciatica.
