Sciatica

Sciatica

The sciatic nerve is a large nerve that forms upon exiting the lower back. There are two sciatic nerves in our body, with one travelling down each buttock and into the back of each leg. Unfortunately, the sciatic nerve can be irritated in a number of ways – this irritation leads to the symptom known as ‘sciatica.’

Sciatica is the term used to describe the uncomfortable sensations felt when the sciatic nerve is irritated or inflamed. These sensations often run down one leg and include burning, numbness, tingling, weakness and other such ‘electric’ sensations. The intensity of the symptoms can vary, and due to the large size of the sciatic nerve, anywhere from the buttocks to the feet can be affected.

Note that in rarer cases, sciatica can affect both legs – however, this may also be a sign of a more serious condition known as cauda equina (in which case emergency care would be required).

One common cause of sciatica comes from herniated discs. This occurs when the disc in a vertebral body bulges out of its socket and traps the sciatic nerve. Another cause can be from tight buttock muscles – one of these buttock muscles is called the piriformis, and it can trap the sciatic nerve on its exit from the buttocks.

How can North Adelaide Chiropractic help?

North Adelaide Chiropractic can help with your sciatic pain. The first goal will be to find out what is causing the sciatica symptoms and where the sciatic nerve is trapped. Whether this is done via imaging (referral to an MRI scan) or through orthopaedic testing during the examination, rest assured that we will find the root cause of your sciatica.

Treatment will be focused on targeting the specific cause of your sciatica. For example, if the cause is from a herniated disc, then gentle adjustments, distractions, extension exercises, and biomechanical blocking could all help to relieve the pressure from the disc.

If you suffer from sciatica or suspect that you suffer from sciatica, give North Adelaide Chiropractic a call on 8361 8182 to see if we can help. We always welcome new patients and will make it a priority to give you fast, effective pain relief.