Sciatica is common and 40% of people will experience the condition at some point in their lives. However, it’s essential to seek treatment, as the condition can lead to permanent nerve damage and chronic pain. At Ireland Clinic of Chiropractic in Anchorage, AK, we provide treatment that can reduce your symptoms and improve your quality of life. You can learn more about the symptoms of sciatica and how it is treated below:
What is Sciatica?
Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve is pinched or irritated. The sciatic nerve begins in your lower back and runs down the buttocks into each leg. If there are any problems along the sciatic nerve, sciatica can develop and lead to pain. Sciatica can be caused by a bulging disc, herniated disc, spinal misalignment, arthritis, injuries, and pregnancy.
Symptoms of Sciatica
Pain is the most common symptom of sciatica. However, the type of pain you experience can vary depending on where the nerve is being affected. You may have pain in your back, hips, buttocks, or legs, which can be sharp, burning, or dull. The discomfort may also be constant or come and go. The pain can also feel worse if you have been sitting or standing for a long period of time. You might also experience numbness or tingling in your legs and feet or muscle weakness, which can make it difficult to stand or walk.
Chiropractic Treatment for Sciatica
At our practice, we provide a variety of treatments to help relieve pain from sciatica. Sometimes, we may combine techniques to help you heal quickly. Chiropractic care focuses on treating the underlying cause of your pain instead of masking the symptoms.
Chiropractic Adjustment
Chiropractic adjustment is often the first treatment used for sciatica. If your sciatica is caused by spinal misalignment, you will feel relief once your spine is in proper alignment. Adjustments can also reduce inflammation, improve nervous system function, and reduce the risk of injury.
Massage Therapy
Massage therapy can also help relieve sciatica pain. Massage therapy relaxes tight muscles, which eliminate your discomfort as well. The therapy also reduces inflammation, increases blood flow, and helps your body maintain proper alignment.
Spinal Decompression
Spinal decompression is used to treat bulging and herniated discs. Our chiropractor will use a special table to create negative pressure within the spine, which helps the discs return to their proper position.
Therapeutic Exercises
Therapeutic exercises can be beneficial for sciatica pain. Our chiropractor will decide which exercises would be most helpful for your condition and how to perform them. Then, you’ll continue performing the exercises at home.
Contact us for an Appointment Today
If you are experiencing pain due to sciatica, our team at Ireland Clinic of Chiropractic in Anchorage, AK, can help. We offer a range of treatments, including chiropractic adjustments and massage therapy, to eliminate your discomfort so you can return to the activities you love. To learn more about our treatments and schedule your appointment, call us at (907) 561-1222 today.
