A Guide to Sciatica
If you have ever experienced sciatica, you know just how debilitating it can be. The pain and suffering that comes along with it can impact every move you make throughout the day and even while you sleep. The first step to treating any pain and discomfort is through knowledge of the issue, which is why our team at Peach Orchard Family Chiro has put together this quick guide for you to gain a better understanding.
What Is Sciatica?
Sciatica is often called a condition, but it’s actually a set of symptoms that result from an issue with the sciatic nerve. This nerve is both the longest and the largest in your body. It starts at the lower back and splits off to run down each of your legs to your feet.
Sciatica is a group of symptoms that occur when this nerve is compressed or damaged. Often, this is due to spinal misalignment. However, it can also be caused by injuries, muscle tension, herniated discs, and more. When this nerve compression or damage occurs, it leads to symptoms like:
- Leg pain
- Lower back pain
- Shooting pains down the leg or foot
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Muscle weakness
How Do I Know That Sciatica Is the Issue?
Some sciatica symptoms mirror symptoms caused by other issues. However, one of the most obvious signs is that you only feel symptoms on one side of your body – whichever side is compressed or damaged. In other words, if the part of the nerve that branches off to the left becomes compressed, you’ll typically feel leg pain, lower back pain, or tingling just on the left side.
How Does a Chiropractor Treat Sciatica?
When you visit Peach Orchard Family Chiro, your treatment for sciatica symptoms will be based on the root cause of your pain. If a spinal misalignment is the problem, spinal adjustments are utilized. If a herniated disc is the root of the issue, typically a combination of adjustments and spinal decompression is effective. Other methods, such as therapeutic massage, therapeutic exercise, and more can be used to provide the best results.
Find Relief from Sciatica in Gilbert, SC
If you are suffering from sciatica, we want to help you get back to enjoying life. Call our team today at (803) 356-2225 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.