Sciatica is a common medical condition that causes pain to spread from the lower body down through the legs. Sciatica pain originates from the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in the body, that branches out through most of the lower body. When this nerve is pinched, compressed, or affected by an injury, it can lead to intense pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the lower extremities.
Luckily, there are effective treatment options for those experiencing sciatica pain. Of these treatments, visiting a chiropractor can be one of the most effective. A professional chiropractor’s office can offer chiropractic adjustment, massage therapy, heat and cold therapy, or even acupuncture to relieve sciatica pain. As a non-invasive and holistic approach to care, many patients see additional health benefits, such as improved mobility and blood circulation. In this blog, we’re taking a closer look at sciatica pain and how chiropractic care can prove to be an effective form of treatment for this medical condition.
Governor’s Park Chiropractic is Colorado’s leading full-service chiropractic office. Proud to serve the greater Denver area, our expert chiropractors specialize in a range of treatments. These include general chiropractic adjustments, spinal decompression, acupuncture, massage therapy, and more. With years of experience and dedicated staff, the professionals at Governor’s Park Chiropractic will ensure that you have a long-lasting and effective recovery. If you’re suffering from chronic pain, back problems, or limited mobility, don’t hesitate to reach out. Let’s begin your journey toward better health.
What is Sciatica Pain?
Sciatica pain refers to a specific type of pain that originates from the sciatic nerve. This nerve runs from the lower back, down through the hips, and through both legs. When something causes this nerve to be compressed or pinched, intense pain radiates from the nerve and spreads throughout the lower region of the body. Sciatica may also lead to inflammation or numbness in the hips and legs.
What Does Sciatica Pain Feel Like?
In most cases, this health condition is characterized by pain that begins in the lower back and then radiates down through the buttocks and the legs. This type of pain is the primary symptom for those experiencing sciatica.
Depending on the severity of the condition, sciatica pain ranges from a minor annoyance and irritation to excruciating pain that can render daily activities almost impossible. Sciatica pain can feel like a mild, dull ache, an electrical shock, or a burning sensation down the legs. Sciatica pain may also be associated with tingling in the lower extremities, muscles weakness, or numbness in the affected region.
How Do Chiropractors Treat Sciatica?
There are four primary ways that chiropractors can perform sciatica treatment: chiropractic adjustments, massage therapy, heat and cold therapy, and acupuncture. Let’s take a closer look at each of these methods:
1. Chiropractic adjustments.
Performing spinal adjustments is the primary method used by chiropractors to treat pain, limited mobility, and a variety of ailments like sciatica. In many cases, sciatica pain is caused by a herniated disc in the spine. Chiropractic adjustments can work to realign the spine and allow the disc to rest in proper alignment. Chiropractic adjustments can reduce pain, improve circulation, and improve nervous system functioning. This hands-on approach to care has proved effective for countless patients.
2. Massage therapy.
Massage therapy for sciatica pain does much more than make you feel good. Massage can be used to treat conditions affecting a patient’s muscles, nerves, joints, and connective tissue. Massage therapy can ease sciatica pain by working to loosen and relax the muscles. Tight muscles are often a cause of pain. Massage therapy also works to improve circulation, which helps oxygen and other nutrients reach all the parts of your body, including your lower back. These nutrients promote faster healing. Additionally, massage therapy releases endorphins and can help reduce stress.
3. Heat and cold therapy.
Alternating between heat and cold therapy can prove effective at treating sciatica pain.
Heat therapy works to release tight muscles and reduce pain while the alternating cold therapy can slow down blood flow and ease inflammation symptoms. This form of treatment is effective at providing quick pain relief for patients.
4. Acupuncture.
Acupuncture is a form of treatment that has been used as a part of traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Chinese practitioners believed that acupuncture works to balance the flow of energy throughout the body, promoting healing, relaxation, and better overall health. Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles through the patient’s skin at strategic points. This stimulates the nerves and boosts your body’s natural painkillers. Many say that acupuncture can also relax muscles, improve circulation, and treat nervous system issues. All these health benefits point to why acupuncture can be an effective sciatica pain treatment.
Methods for Preventing Sciatica
While sciatica is a common medical condition (and one that becomes more common as you age), there are several steps you can take to prevent developing sciatica pain. Of course, none of these methods guarantee you will never get sciatica pain; however, practicing these steps can reduce your risk.
What are some ways you can prevent sciatica pain? Take a look:
- Practice good posture: throughout the day, make it a focal point to maintain good posture. Whether sitting, standing, or lying down, focus on keeping your posture straight to avoid additional pressure and strain on your lower back.
- Regular exercise: maintaining a healthy weight can help to prevent sciatica as obesity, over time, adds pressure to the sciatic nerve.
- Avoid a sedentary lifestyle: sitting for long periods of time can put a strain on your back. Even if you’re stuck at a desk for work, try to get up and move around if you can and keep active throughout the day. Using a standing desk at work is one effective way to stay productive while protecting your lower back.
Conclusion – Can Chiropractic Care Treat Sciatica Pain?
Sciatica is a common health condition that causes radiating pain from the lower back down through the hips, buttocks, and legs. Depending on the severity of the condition, sciatica pain can be a minor annoyance or an excruciating pain that impacts your daily life. Luckily, chiropractors offer several methods for effectively treating this type of pain. Depending on your condition, they may utilize chiropractic adjustments, acupuncture, heat and cold therapy, or massage therapy to reduce pain, improve circulation, and help you get back to your life.
If you’re suffering from sciatica pain, the experts at Governor’s Park Chiropractic can help. We understand how every journey to recovery is unique. This is why we personalize our therapy programs to meet your specific healthcare needs. Whether you’re suffering sciatica pain, a car accident injury, a sports-related injury, or you’re experiencing chronic pain or limited mobility, our team can help you heal and recover faster. Led by Dr. Ferdowsian and his advanced chiropractic techniques, our office utilizes a non-invasive approach to care to ensure you receive the best treatment available.
Contact us today at Governor’s Park Chiropractic to learn more about what our full-service chiropractic care can do for your healthcare needs.
Governor's Park Chiropractic is the Colorado chiropractor team dedicated to helping individuals get out of pain and achieve better health. Offering a range of services and treatment options to meet the specific needs of each patient.