Do you have nagging pains in your lower body? If you do, then you're in the right place. Our Chiropractor at Bakke Chiropractic Clinic in Tacoma, WA has prepared answers to commonly asked questions about sciatica. If not all of your questions are answered here, contact our clinic for more information.
What is sciatica pain?
Sciatica pain can be described as a dull ache in the lower back that shoots down to one of your legs through your buttocks. While the pain may not seem serious, it can lead to other health problems if not addressed immediately. As such, it’s essential you visit a medical professional if you suspect you have sciatica pain for proper diagnosis.
What are the causes of sciatica?
Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in the body, is pinched, irritated, or compressed. Here are the common causes of sciatica:
Herniated disk: If the disc moves out of position, it can compress spinal nerves, causing pain.
Spinal stenosis: When the spinal canal narrows, it exerts pressure on spinal cords and nerves, resulting in pain.
Spondylolisthesis: When vertebrae slip over one another and get out of position, the extended bone can pinch the sciatic nerve, causing lower back pain.
Trauma: Injuries to the spine could injure the sciatic nerve.
While anyone is at risk of sciatica pain, the following factors increase the chances of a person experiencing sciatica pain:
- Being overweight
- Diabetes
- Smoke
- Previous injury
- Inactive lifestyle
- Age
- Occupation
What are sciatica symptoms?
While the classic symptom of sciatica is pain that radiates from the lower back to the legs, there are other symptoms of sciatic nerve pain, such as:
- Numbness or weakness in the back, buttock, and legs
- Pain that gets worse with prolonged sitting or movement
- Feeling like pins and needles in your feet
- Loss of bowel and bladder control
How do chiropractors treat sciatica?
The good news is that chiropractic care can treat sciatica. Chiropractic adjustments are one of the most common methods used to treat sciatica. This non-invasive procedure aligns the spinal joints, removing restrictions that compress the sciatic nerve.
Other chiropractic treatments for sciatica include stretching exercises, lifestyle counseling, and cold therapy.
How can I prevent sciatica?
While some sciatica causes are beyond your control, for others, you have a part to play. Below are some tips to prevent sciatica pain:
- Maintain good posture while standing, sitting, or lifting weights
- Avoid smoking
- Retain healthy body weight
- Regular exercises
- Avoid activities that can harm your back
Where can I get sciatica pain treatment?
Sciatica does not necessarily mean medications and surgery. In most cases, self-treatment helps patients recover from the condition. However, if this doesn't help, then it may be the right time to see our Chiropractor at Bakke Chiropractic Clinic in Tacoma, WA.