Can a Chiropractor help with sciatica?

Sciatica pain is produced when the large nerve that runs down the back of your leg becomes compressed or irritated:

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What are the symptoms?

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• Pain in the leg or buttock that can be made worse in certain positions

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• Burning or tingling or other change of sensation running down the leg

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• Weakness, numbness or difficulty moving the foot in certain directions

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• Constant pain in the buttock

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• Shooting pains down the leg

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Sciatica usually affects only one side of the body and can extend from the back all the way down the leg to the foot. Pain or cramping in the calf is common. 

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What causes sciatica?

 

Sciatica is usually caused by irritation or compression of the nerve that exits the lower spinal joints. 

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The common causes:

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• Spinal stenosis- usually related to aging of the spine.

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• Degenerative disc disease- the spongy discs between the vertebrae can become dehydrated with aging and can cause compression. 

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• Spondylolisthesis- when one part of the spine moves forward relative to the other.

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• Irritation/inflammation- Injury near the nerve can cause inflammation to irritate the nerve. 

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How can chiropractic help?

 

Chiropractic care helps the body heal itself with non-invasive (non-surgical), drug-free treatment. 

 

Sciatica Treatments Used by Chiropractors:

 

• Ice/Cold Therapy reduces inflammation and helps control sciatic pain.

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• Massage therapy-  It increases circulation and reduces muscle spasms, cramping, swelling, stiffness, and pain.

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• Manipulation- using a chiropractic adjustment is a recommended treatment option for sciatic pain.

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• Exercises- Chiropractors are trained to prescribe the right exercises for your sciatica pain. 

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Book a free consultation with Shane today to obtain a diagnosis and recommended treatment options. 

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