Sciatica: Discover the Healing Powers of Chiropractic Care

Sciatica is a condition that affects almost 40% of the global population. Most have mild sciatica that resolves on its own. For some, the condition requires treatment to prevent muscle weakness, chronic pain, and mobility issues. Some treatment options include medications, lifestyle adjustments, and physical therapy. Doctors recommend surgery to treat severe cases.

Understanding Sciatica

Sciatica is a sharp pain that is usually triggered by a pinched nerve. The sciatic nerve goes from the lower back, down the hips, to each leg. The pain usually travels along the nerve into the leg(s), though most people’s symptoms are concentrated to one side and range from mild to severe.

Some people describe the pain as an electric shock, while others experience a dull aching pain. The affected limb may feel weak or numb, and the pain can affect mobility. Sciatica is usually due to a herniated spinal disk or a bone spur that presses on the nerve.

Seeking Chiropractic Care

If not treated, sciatica can cause permanent nerve damage. It can lead to bladder and bowel problems. Most people seek holistic healthcare to deal with sciatica. Chiropractic care is a safe and effective method to treat sciatica.

Natural noninvasive treatment revolves around manual therapies and spinal manipulation to relieve pain. Chiropractic care targets the entire body, not just the painful area. Patients require multiple sessions to get relief.

Chiropractic Treatment Plan

Chiropractors develop a treatment plan uniquely suited to each patient’s condition. X-rays may help determine the underlying cause because they can show whether a degenerative spine is the culprit of the pain.

Treatment often involves stretching the body and applying controlled pressure to the joints. It may also include manipulation, heat application, and massage. The chiropractor may additionally recommend at-home exercises to help manage the pain. Their plan will include tips on good nutrition and overall wellness, too.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care

People have several reasons for choosing chiropractic care for sciatica. They often cite the following benefits:
 

• Reducing the need for medication

• It reduces inflammation and relieves pain

• It helps realign the spine, improving their overall health

• Reduces symptoms such as numbness, stiffness, and weakness

• Helps improve circulation and reduce muscle tension

• The treatment has no side effects

Identifying the Root Cause

Identifying the root cause of the condition is vital for effective treatment. The pain can move from the back to the entire side of the body. It allows the chiropractor to create a specialized treatment plan.

The chiropractor will ask about your health history and your symptoms. Manual therapy can help quicken the healing process. The chiropractor may also use a low-level laser to reduce pain, swelling, edema, irritation, and other symptoms.

A chiropractor can help relieve symptoms of sciatica before they become worse. Realigning the spine can take pressure off the pinched nerve. If not treated, the condition can lead to long-term complications. Making lifestyle changes can help relieve some symptoms.
 

For more on sciatica and discovering the healing powers of chiropractic care, visit Back and Neck Pain Centers at our Seattle, Bellevue, or Tukwila, Washington offices. Call (206) 233-0818, (206) 772-0088, (425) 649-9335, or (425) 243-1200, respectively. to schedule an appointment today.