Sciatica is just one of many common musculoskeletal issues that can lead to pain and various uncomfortable symptoms. In this short guide, we at Sundstrom Chiropractic Clinic in Elk Grove, CA, explain sciatica, how to know you are living with it, and what chiropractic care can do to help.
request an appointmentUnderstanding Sciatica
Sciatica is a term used to describe symptoms that occur when the sciatic nerve is damaged or compressed. This nerve begins in the lower back and splits to travel down to the left and right foot. It often becomes compressed due to misalignment in the spine and herniated discs.
Symptoms of Sciatica
Sciatica tends to cause the following symptoms, which can vary among the people suffering from it:
- Lower back pain
- Pain down the hip and leg – all the way to the feet
- Tingling
- Numbness
- Sharp, shooting pain
- Burning sensations
- Muscle weakness
The symptoms that indicate sciatica typically only occur on one side of the body, depending on how the sciatic nerve is compressed. They might also worsen after sitting, when you bend backward, during specific times of the day, and even if you sneeze, cough, or laugh.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help Provide Relief
Chiropractic care can help provide relief from back pain and other sciatica symptoms through natural methods. As sciatica is typically caused by compression of the sciatic nerve, relieving that compression is one of the main focuses.
Adjustments restore alignment, which takes undue pressure off of the spinal discs and nerves. Soft tissue techniques like therapeutic massage might be used to help stimulate healing and potentially help restore nerve function. Therapeutic exercises might also be recommended to help stretch and strengthen the back to reduce the likelihood of sciatica occurring again.
You may also receive personalized guidance for various factors that might be contributing to your sciatica symptoms. This can include recommendations on nutrition, exercise, daily habits, and more – depending on your individual needs.
Get Chiropractic Care from a Chiropractor for Sciatica and Back Pain Treatment
It’s time to enjoy relief from your sciatica symptoms by calling our Sundstrom Chiropractic Clinic team at (916) 685-6380 to schedule an appointment. If you are in or near the Elk Grove, CA area, our “chiropractor near me” is here to help.