What is Sciatica? How can it be Treated?

Sciatica generally refers to any set of symptoms running into the leg, which can include pain, numbness, burning, tingling, or all of the above. Sciatic symptoms can go part way down the leg or all the way to the toes, depending on the severity of the condition. Sciatica happens when the sciatic nerve or other nerves of the spine are compressed as they leave the spine and travel down the leg. It is important to understand that sciatica refers to the symptoms of pain, numbness, or tingling, and not the condition that is causing them. Sciatica can be caused by bulged or herniated discs, a muscle problem known as Piriformis Syndrome, Spinal Stenosis, chronic back problems, or complications from a back injury.
Treatment of Sciatica involves applying measures to control or reduce the resulting inflammation and swelling around the sciatic nerve, as well as measures to correct the causative condition. The application of ice is an effective means of reducing swelling and inflammation, however, the ice should not be applied on the leg where the symptoms are being experienced, rather, in the area of the lower back or hip were the symptoms originate. Ice should be used only 15-20 minutes at a time with 30minutes between applications. There are over-the-counter medications that can be used for control of swelling and inflammation, but should be used short-term only.
For diagnosis and treatment of the cause of the sciatica, it is best to turn to a qualified health care professional. For the treatment of non-complicated Sciatica, both Chiropractic and Physical Therapy have been shown to be superior treatment methods when compared with treatment by a medical doctor using pharmaceuticals. Physical Therapists can work with the different muscles involved in order to reduce the tightness of the muscles and increase range of motion. Chiropractors can also work with the affected muscles, but also employ spinal adjusting or “spinal mobilization” to directly relieve the pressure off of the nerves and speed up the healing process.
If you are experiencing Sciatica or similar symptoms, it is best to be evaluated by a Chiropractor or Physical Therapist in your area to determine what type of sciatica you have, and to determine the proper course of treatment.
Dr. Calvin Shanks, a practicing Chiropractor of nine (9) years is the owner of The Fix, Chiropractic Solutions in Paducah, KY. For more information please the website at www.thefixchiro.com, or telephone at 270-450-0848, or visit the office in The Village Business Center (behind The Home Depot, next to Dallas Medical and David Spicer Jewelers) in Paducah, KY.