What causes sciatica?
Sciatica is a term that's used to describe pain in your sciatic nerve. This nerve originates at the base of your spine and extends down through both legs. If you're experiencing pain, numbness or tingling in these areas, you may have a lower back issue such as:
- A herniated disc
- Degenerative disc disease
- Spinal stenosis
- A pinched nerve
- A dysfunctional joint
- A stress fracture
- A tumor on or near the spine
- Infection
Any one of these conditions could cause the sciatic pain you're experiencing, but with chiropractic treatment, your discomfort can be lessened or alleviated.
What are the symptoms of sciatica?
Sciatica can manifest in a number of ways, including:
- Searing pain, weakness or numbness in one or both legs
- Constant nagging pain in the leg and buttock
- Leg pain that's worse when standing
- Lower back pain
- Toe pain
- Pins and needles in the legs
You may experience one or many of these symptoms if something in your lower back is compromised. The cure may involve the application of heat or ice, ultrasound, Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation or TENS, or spinal adjustment. In most cases, Dr. Jenkins significantly improves sciatica without the need for surgical intervention. At Jenkins Chiropractic, we have vast experience treating this common condition that affects millions of people every year in the United States.
How is sciatica treated?
When you book a consultation with complaints of sciatica-like pain, Dr. Jenkins will perform a full evaluation to clarify the root of the problem. In most instances, sciatica isn't a symptom of a serious ailment. There are exceptions to this rule, however, as in the case of spinal tumors or infections. Dr. Jenkins will investigate the source of your problems to ensure that a more serious issue doesn't exist.
Exercise is important for anyone who suffers from sciatica, as staying in bed or remaining motionless can weaken the muscles in and around your back, making your pain even worse. Strengthening your core muscles, those located in your abdominal area and back is often beneficial to clients who have sciatica.
