Sciatica Treatment in Englewood
A common condition characterized by pain radiating down the leg from the lower back, sciatica can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. This pain arises from compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in the human body, originating in the lower spine and branching down to the leg.
What Are Some Causes?
Sciatica is often caused by herniated or bulging discs in the lower spine, acting as shock absorbers between the vertebrae. These discs can protrude and impinge on the sciatic nerve, leading to pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the affected leg. Other potential causes of sciatica include spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spinal canal, and piriformis syndrome, a condition involving the piriformis muscle located deep in the buttocks.
How Chiropractic Care May Help
Chiropractors, trained healthcare professionals focusing on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders, use various techniques to address sciatica and its underlying causes. “Chiropractic care aims to restore proper alignment and function of the spine, reducing pressure on the sciatic nerve and alleviating pain,” said Dr. Plummer.
Here are four ways chiropractic care can address sciatica:
- Relieves pain: Chiropractic adjustments and other therapies can effectively reduce sciatic pain, improving mobility and overall quality of life.
- Reduces reliance on medication: Chiropractic care can help minimize the need for pain medication, offering a more natural approach to pain management.
- Improves function: Chiropractic treatment can enhance spinal alignment and function, promoting better posture, balance, and coordination.
- Helps prevent future episodes: Regular chiropractic care can help maintain spinal health and reduce the risk of future sciatic incidents.
Additional Techniques for Sciatica
In addition to spinal adjustments, Dr. Plummer may use a range of other therapies to complement sciatica treatment. These may include
Soft tissue therapy: Techniques like massage and trigger point therapy help release muscle tension and spasms, which can contribute to sciatic pain.
- Ice and heat therapy: Alternating between ice and heat application can reduce inflammation and promote pain relief.
- Therapeutic exercises: Strengthening and stretching exercises can enhance spinal stability, improve muscle function, and prevent future sciatic episodes.
Put Pain in Your Past
If you are experiencing sciatica symptoms, give our practice a call today. Dr. Plummer will conduct a thorough evaluation, including a detailed medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests, to determine the underlying cause of your sciatica and develop a personalized treatment plan.
