Sciatica
Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve becomes irritated, compressed, or pinched. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body and travels from the lower back through the buttocks and down the legs.
Typically, sciatic pain starts in the low back or buttock and radiates down the back of the thigh, calf, or even into the foot and toes.
Pain levels can vary widely. Some patients experience a mild ache, while others feel sharp, burning, or electric shock-like pain. In addition, many patients notice:
- Tingling or pins-and-needles sensations
- Numbness in the leg or foot
- Muscle weakness
- Pain while sitting, walking, or bending
- Difficulty standing upright or walking comfortably
Most cases of sciatica affect only one side of the body. However, depending on the location and severity of the nerve compression, both sides may occasionally become involved.
Common Causes of Sciatica
Several conditions may irritate or compress the sciatic nerve.
Herniated or Bulging Disc
A herniated or prolapsed disc is one of the most common causes of sciatica. When a spinal disc bulges or tears, it may place pressure on the nearby nerve root, causing pain to travel down the leg.
Degenerative Disc Disease and Spinal Stenosis
As spinal discs wear down with age, the spinal canal may gradually narrow. This condition is known as spinal stenosis.
Because the nerves have less room to move freely, even mild pressure may trigger sciatic pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness.
Osteoarthritis and Bone Spurs
Over time, osteoarthritis may cause the cartilage in the spine to wear down. Consequently, the body may develop bone spurs that irritate nearby nerves and contribute to sciatic pain.
Occupation and Repetitive Stress
Jobs that involve repetitive lifting, twisting, bending, carrying heavy loads, or prolonged sitting may increase stress on the lower back and sciatic nerve.
Trauma and Auto Accidents
Falls, sports injuries, and motor vehicle accidents may injure the spine or surrounding muscles. As a result, inflammation and nerve irritation may develop.
Piriformis Syndrome
The piriformis muscle sits deep within the buttock region. If this muscle becomes tight or spasms, it may compress the sciatic nerve and cause pain down the leg.
Cauda Equina Syndrome
Cauda equina syndrome is a rare but serious condition that affects the nerve bundle at the base of the spinal cord.
Symptoms may include:
- Severe low back pain
- Numbness in the legs
- Loss of bowel or bladder control
- Severe weakness in the legs
Because this condition may lead to permanent nerve damage, immediate medical attention is necessary.
Can Sciatica Cause Permanent Nerve Damage?
If severe sciatica remains untreated for an extended period, nerve damage may occur.
One possible complication is “drop foot,” a condition where the foot becomes weak or difficult to lift while walking. Additionally, patients may develop chronic numbness, weakness, or permanent loss of sensation in the leg or foot.
Therefore, early treatment is important to help reduce the risk of long-term nerve damage.
Treatment for Sciatica
The primary goals of treatment are to reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve, decrease inflammation, improve movement, and address the underlying cause of the problem.
Since sciatica can develop from several different conditions, a thorough history and examination are essential before treatment begins.
Chiropractic Care and Spinal Decompression
Chiropractic care and spinal decompression therapy may help reduce pressure surrounding the affected nerve root.
As treatment improves spinal movement and flexibility, many patients experience reduced nerve irritation and muscle tightness. Additionally, restoring proper joint movement may help decrease pain traveling down the leg.
Stretching and Strengthening Exercises
After pain and inflammation begin to improve, patients are often given stretches and exercises to perform at home.
These exercises help:
- Improve flexibility
- Increase range of motion
- Stretch tight muscles
- Strengthen the low back and core muscles
- Improve posture and spinal support
To avoid aggravating symptoms, exercises should be performed carefully and without sharp pain.
Heat and Ice Therapy
If sciatica develops after an injury or trauma, ice may help reduce severe pain and inflammation during the first 48 hours.
After the acute stage, heat therapy may help relax muscles, improve circulation, and reduce muscle spasms. Furthermore, heat may help decrease stiffness and improve mobility.
Massage Therapy for Sciatica
Massage therapy may help decrease muscle tension, improve flexibility, and reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve.
In particular, massage can help relax tight muscles in the low back, buttocks, hips, and legs.
Staying Active Is Important
Although short periods of rest may help during severe flare-ups, long-term inactivity is usually not recommended.
Instead, gentle activities such as:
- Walking
- Swimming
- Biking
- Light stretching
may improve circulation, reduce stiffness, and support recovery.
Natural and Regenerative Therapies for Sciatica
Some patients use short-term anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) during acute sciatic pain. While these medications may temporarily reduce discomfort, prolonged use may slow healing and contribute to digestive, kidney, or liver problems.
At Alta Mountain Chiropractic, we offer therapies designed to support the body’s natural healing response. Depending on the patient’s condition, treatment options may include:
- Nutritional supplements
- Prolozone therapy
- Homeopathic injections
- Chiropractic care
- Soft tissue therapies
When Are X-Rays or MRI Needed for Sciatica?
Imaging such as X-rays or MRI may or may not be necessary depending on the severity of symptoms and the suspected cause of the sciatica.
Dr. Nathan Eldredge performs a thorough examination during the initial visit to determine whether imaging is needed to properly diagnose and treat your condition
If you are suffering from sciatica please give us a call at 801-523-2582 or schedule online (Click here) so that we can start helping you with this serious condition right away.
