“Sciatica”, also known as sciatic neuritis, is a common type of pain affecting the sciatic nerve, the large nerve extending from the lower back down the back of each leg. Sciatica symptoms involve radiating pain down the back of one lower extremity, usually including the back of the thigh and calf, possibly extending into the foot. Pain can be described as sharp, shooting, burning or tingling down the leg. Numbness and weakness may also accompany the pain and it may be difficult to stand up. The onset is generally gradual and not necessarily associated with a precipitating event.
Sciatica is caused by irritation of the root(s) of the lower lumbar and lumbosacral spine. The common causes of Sciatica include but are not limited to Lumbar spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, pregnancy, or muscle spasm in the back or buttocks.
Regular chiropractic care is a natural remedy for sciatic pain. Regular visits can detect and correct spinal dysfunction that may be a source of the pain. In addition to regular chiropractic care, your chiropractor may recommend the use of ice applications and stretching/exercise to assist in managing the nerve irritation. An ice pack or plastic bag filled with ice cubes may be applied to the lower back for 15 minutes every few hours to help reduce associated muscle pain, muscle spasm, and sciatic nerve inflammation. It is important to avoid placing the cold pack directly to the skin and instead use a thin towel to cover the ice pack first. Gentle exercise, including walking and riding a stationary bike, will similarly assist in the process of recovery.
Sciatica pain may be mild for some people, but too much for others. As there are various intensities of pain, it is always best to prevent its occurrence rather than wait for it to happen before getting treatment. Your friends at Shaw Chiropractic are your go-to resource for the range of natural remedies that help resolve and prevent sciatica pain.