Sciatica (aka Lumbar Radiculopathy) is a term used to describe symptoms of pain, numbness and/or weakness in the lower back, back of the hip and back of the leg originating from pinching of the sciatic nerve somewhere along the pathway that it follows. It is usually caused by bulging of a lumbar disc, spinal stenosis, spine wear/tear or due to compression by the piriformis muscle which is in the buttock (in this case, it is called piriformis syndrome)
Chiropractic is an effective treatment in managing sciatica and its causes. After the examination and diagnosis, depending on the cause of your sciatica, a course of treatment is suggested, aimed to mobilise the spine and open up the disc space for the disc to return to its original position, or in cases of piriformis syndrome, to loosen up the muscular tissue so to reduce the pressure over the nerve. Thanks to different forms of treatment, ranging from activator technique, spinal manipulation, pelvic blocking, soft tissues release, rehab exercises and sciatic traction, people from all walks of life can benefit from chiropractic care. In severe cases, surgery is also considered.
Longer-term care for sciatica
Sciatica is what I usually consider an “end-stage problem”: Because our nerves transmit the messages from our brain to help us function, they are very well protected by the spine. This protection allows us to continue to function as normal. Therefore, to have a nerve pinched or compressed, usually means that some predisposing factors were already there. Factors such as lifestyle choices, aches and pains that you have been putting ignoring, poor habits, a job or activity that requires you to bend down repetitively, lifting too much, driving for prolonged time.
That is why chiropractors suggest their patients come for check-ups regularly, especially if you are aware that something might be wrong, or if you have had pain for a while. Sciatica is a painful condition and one you want to avoid. It can be very debilitating and limit your everyday activity and work and is one of the top reasons for absenteeism at work.
So, what can you if you have or think that you have sciatica? My personal suggestion is to get checked by your chiropractor! Our chiropractors are at the ready to help you dealing with sciatica and our holistic approach will also help you manage all the predisposing factors that could have caused it. Contact us on 0113 258 8999 or at reception@broadgatechiropractic.com to book your first assessment and treatment or a free consultation with one of our heroes.