Sciatica Treatment
Chiropractic Treatment For Sciatica
When we say, “I’ve got sciatica”, what we are describing is actually the symptom of another condition – and there are several different conditions that cause the leg pain that can range from cramp-like, to excruciating, so that doing anything at all – including walking, standing, sitting or even lying down – can be almost unbearable! Symptoms can come on gradually or happen very suddenly and can include pins and needles, weakness, numbness and burning sensations.
Because there could be several conditions (or a combination of these), causing the problem, I do a very thorough assessment of all patients with lower back pain and associated symptoms when they visit Balance Chiropractic. I understand that establishing the root cause of the problem is vital when determining the most effective course of treatment for a patient with Sciatica. Call me on (02) 9868 2509 to arrange your consultation today.
What Causes Sciatica?
Sciatica is often caused by a compressed nerve (or nerves) – either within the spine itself, or as it passes out of the spine and into the leg. The most common causes of the symptoms we describe are:
- A ‘slipped’ disc. A disc that has become herniated and bulges out causing pressure on a nerve or nerves.
- Subluxations. These are where a vertebra (or vertebrae) in the spine is not functioning properly. The dysfunction can stretch or traction the nerve as it passes out of the spinal canal irritating it.
- A condition called Piriformis syndrome. This results in pressure and consequent irritation of the sciatic nerve. It is caused by muscle spasms or tightening of a muscle in the buttocks called the Piriformis muscle. This is less common and usually begins with the pain, pins and needles or numbness in the buttocks.
- A more unusual condition producing sciatica symptoms is Spinal Stenosis where the spinal canal becomes narrower. This puts pressure on the nerves contained within it.
Chiropractic – Often Effective Where Other Treatments Have Failed
Most of us suffer from low back pain at some times in our lives, either as an acute episode resulting from accident or injury, or as a chronic, recurring problem. I treat many patients with low back pain and sciatica symptoms because, quite simply, Chiropractic treatment works – often for people who have tried other treatments and taken medications without the effective, long-term results that a Chiropractor can provide.
Relief from chronic pain can transform lives. While not every case is suitable for Chiropractic care and a few people will need referral to another healthcare professional, for the vast majority, Chiropractic brings quick, longer-lasting and more cost effective relief from the sciatica symptoms in particular and low back pain in general, by comparison with other treatments such as anti-inflammatory or muscle-relaxant medications.
The exact type of intervention you will receive at Balance Chiropractic will depend on the cause of your symptoms and may include a combination of different approaches to provide a treatment regime that is suited to your particular circumstances. So take that first step today and call me on (02) 9868 2509. Even if you have had the problem for a while and other therapies have not helped, Chiropractic could provide you with the solution you have been looking for.