The sciatic nerve is the longest in the body and runs from the lower back down to the feet. When this nerve becomes compressed or irritated, it can cause pain in the lower back, legs, and sometimes even the feet. Sciatic nerve pain is a common problem we treat at Insight Health & Wellness in Philadelphia. Dr. Dunlap will work with you to find the best sciatica treatment possible.
Symptoms of Sciatica
The most common sciatica symptom is pain radiating from the lower back and down the leg. This pain can range from mild to severe, making it difficult to walk or even stand. Other symptoms of sciatica include:
- Numbness or tingling in the leg
- Weakness in the leg
- Burning or aching sensations in the leg
- A shooting pain that makes it difficult to move the leg
Causes of Sciatica
Several things can cause sciatic nerve pain. Some of the most common causes include:
Herniated Discs
A herniated disc is a problem with one of the discs that sit between the vertebrae in the spine. These discs act as shock absorbers and they can become damaged over time. When a disc is damaged, it can put pressure on the sciatic nerve, which can cause pain.
Degenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative disc disease is a condition that occurs when the discs in the spine begin to deteriorate. This can happen due to age or wear and tear on the discs. As the discs degenerate, they can put pressure on the sciatic nerve, which can cause pain.
Piriformis Syndrome
Piriformis syndrome is a condition that occurs when the piriformis muscle in the hip region becomes tight or spasms. This muscle is located near the sciatic nerve, and when it becomes irritated, it can put pressure on the sciatic nerve, which can cause pain.
Chiropractic Care for Sciatica
A chiropractor can provide sciatic nerve pain relief by gently manipulating the spine to take pressure off the sciatic nerve. Chiropractic care can also offer pain management for sciatica by providing exercises and stretches that can relieve sciatic nerve pain. The techniques our chiropractor may use to provide sciatic nerve pain relief include:
- Spinal manipulation to take pressure off of the sciatic nerve
- Massage therapy to relax the muscles that may be putting pressure on the sciatic nerve
- Exercises and stretches to help in pain management for sciatica
Contact Our Chiropractor in Philadelphia, PA
If you are dealing with sciatic nerve pain, call Insight Health & Wellness in Philadelphia to schedule an appointment with Dr. Dunlap. We will work with you to find the best treatment possible so that you can get back to your everyday life. Call our team today at (215) 564-6680 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.
