Sciatica is one of the most debilitating conditions that can be found in the low back. Simply put, Sciatica is severe low back pain which shoots down to the foot or the toes. This pain is unlike the standard sharpness, stiffness and achiness associated with traditional back pain and feels “electric,” almost like a bolt of lighting hits the spine and travels downward. The reason why it is called Sciatica is due to compression or inflammation of the Sciatic Nerve.
In certain cases, Sciatica can be treated within the scope of Chiropractic, but it is our obligation to identify the issue through examinations and diagnostic imaging before treatment takes place.
How does Sciatica present?
As explained in the paragraphs above, the most common cause of Sciatica is due to repetitive trauma to the back itself. Trauma is classified in two different categories: “Microtrauma” and “Macrotrauma.” “Microtrauma” is due to repetitive stress on the spine due to a repetitive motion or a prolonged sitting/standing position, among other situations. “Macrotrauma” is due to a major trauma such as a slip, fall, sports injury, or motor vehicle accident. There are a variety of factors which might be causing this issue. Usually a significant disc bulge is present on the spine and puts pressure on the nerve roots of the Sciatic Nerve. Narrowing of the spinal canal (aka “Stenosis”) can also be a factor in compression of the Sciatic Nerve roots. In less common cases, a mass such as a tumor can be present and will need surgical intervention to remove pressure on the roots of the Sciatic Nerve.
Oftentimes, patients will describe significant pain with even the slightest movements or routine activities which is “electric” in sensation.
Common Causes:
- Improper posture leading to disc bulges and degeneration
- Major Traumas (Slips, Falls, etc…)
- Narrowing of the spinal canal
- Sports Injuries
- Motor Vehicle Accidents
- Abnormal Growths/Tumors or Pathology (Less Common)
- Pregnancy
- Congenital (You’re born with it) conditions
What is the most common cause of Sciatica?
Once the underlying cause has been determined, and any underlying disease or major problem is ruled out, the most common cause of back pain is mechanical in nature. In other words, the joints are “stuck” and are not moving the way they’re designed to. If this lack of movement goes unaddressed over time, pain and restriction of movement might arise. These can lead to degeneration (arthritis) of the spine, narrowing of the spinal canal, muscle spasms, bulging discs, and irritation of the nerves surrounding the back.
Inflammation of these lower back joints in more severe cases can lead to irritation of the Sciatic Nerve, which is a large nerve which travels from your low back down to your feet and toes. This will result in an electric shooting pain down to the feet and toes.
One of the most common misdiagnoses of Sciatica is known as “Piriformis Syndrome” which mimics the symptoms of the former to an extent. The main difference between Sciatica and Piriformis Syndrome is where the pain travels to. This is because symptoms of Piriformis Syndrome travel down to the back of the knee instead of to the feet and toes which is found in Sciatica. The muscle affected is called the “Piriformis,” which is located below the Gluteus Maximus on your backside, but above that sciatic nerve. This is a very common condition treated at Charge into Health Family Chiropractic.
How can Chiropractic help Sciatica?
At Charge into Health Family Chiropractic, we not only look at the symptoms associated with Sciatica, but the cause of other issues which might arise. Sciatica is usually not limited to one area, and can affect other areas of your entire body. There are a variety of factors which might contribute to your Sciatica, so it is important to provide an accurate diagnosis.
During this examination process, we will perform a variety of exams which include, but are not limited to: orthopedic, neurological, and muscle tests to find the cause of the problem. Once we have all of this information, you will be adjusted the same day. If we cannot adjust you, then you will be referred for X-Rays to see what is going on with the joints of your Lower and Mid Back, Legs and Ankles.
From here, we will create a personalized plan to aid in your natural recovery without the need for drugs or surgery. The treatment will include spinal adjustments, muscle work, at home exercises, Kinesio taping, low back supporters, and lifestyle recommendations.
We will also be looking at any other factors which might have led to the injury and will help you make the modifications necessary to quicken your recovery and prevent further injury!