Sciatic Nerve Pain? A Chiropractor May Have The Answer

If you've ever suffered from the nagging back or hip pain that sciatica causes, you know how debilitating it can be. Often, it's difficult to know what is causing the nerve pain, and therefore, it's difficult to get to the root of the problem. If you've tried other treatments with no relief, perhaps you should give chiropractic a try.

What Is Sciatica?

The sciatic nerve runs from the lower spine over the hips and down each leg. Sciatic pain most often is caused by a ruptured spinal disk or bone spur pushing on the nerve. It is often exacerbated by excess weight, pregnancy, high heels, sleeping on a mattress that's too soft, and not getting enough exercise.

The pain can be an acute jolt or dull ache anywhere along the nerve's path. It can also cause weakness or numbness in the leg or foot. It affects up to 40 percent of the world's population.

Often, sciatica will heal itself without any intervention, but if it doesn't, it's important to seek medical attention. However, if your provider suggests a surgical solution, you might want to consider a less drastic or invasive treatment. Chiropractic treatment might be that solution.

How Can a Chiropractor Help?

A chiropractor is a trained medical professional who diagnoses and treats musculoskeletal and nervous system disorders. They rely on conservative techniques such as spinal manipulation and massage to treat these disorders.

However, there are other modes of sciatica treatment that they might try first. Your provider may try cold packs to reduce inflammation of the nerve to reduce the pain. Ultrasound is another often-used option. It uses sound waves to penetrate the muscles of the hip to decrease swelling and ease cramping and pain.

The first step is diagnosing sciatica. Your chiropractor will do that through an examination and patient history. They might also use diagnostic imaging or blood tests to rule out other conditions. Then your chiropractor will likely try the cold and ultrasound therapies. If they don't result in the relief you seek, the next step is spinal manipulation.

Chiropractic care relies on the belief that the body can heal itself, and chiropractors can facilitate this healing through manipulation of the spine and other joints. In addition to spinal manipulation and adjustments, chiropractors may also provide lifestyle and nutritional advice.

If you are looking for a drug-free, non-invasive solution to your nagging sciatica pain, give chiropractic a try. The cost is typically the same or less than traditional forms of medical treatment and is covered by most health insurance providers.

For more information, contact a chiropractor near you.

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