Sciatic Nerve Pain

If you have ever experienced sciatic pain, you already know that it can be debilitating. Your doctor or health care professional probably told you that you have sciatica, prescribed a pain medication, and gave you brief instructions for home care until the condition subsides. What he may not have told you is that unless you address the underlying causes for your sciatic the symptoms are likely to return. Understanding the common causes of sciatic nerve pain and your treatment options is important to managing your pain.

What is sciatica?

Sciatica is pain or discomfort caused by the sciatic nerve. This nerve exits the spinal column in the lower back and runs down the buttocks and down the back of the thigh and continues to the foot. Under normal circumstances the sciatic nerve allows you to feel sensations in your legs. When the nerve becomes damaged or inflamed it can cause discomfort or pain. Symptoms vary from a mild ache or a burning or tingling sensation to extreme pain that may prevent you from standing and sitting comfortably.

What causes sciatica?

Sciatica is often caused by a compressed or herniated disc that pinches the nerve as it exits the spinal column. It can also be caused by spinal stenosis (a narrowing of the spinal column due to arthritis, injury, or genetics), pressure during pregnancy, poor posture, pulled muscles, diabetes, or even sitting on a wallet all day.

How do you treat sciatica?

There are several effective treatments for sciatica. The success of each depends on the underlying cause of your symptoms. In some cases, pain medication to reduce inflammation and rest will alleviate the symptoms. However, if symptoms recur or resist initial trials of medication and rest, there are other options.

Spinal Manipulation: This may be performed by either an osteopathic doctor or a chiropractor. Manipulating the spine to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve often brings relief from the pain and discomfort.

Ultrasound: Using sound waves to create a gentle heat that penetrates the muscles and tissues surrounding the sciatic nerve may relieve muscle spasms. It increases circulation which may relieve cramps, stiffness, and pain. Ultrasound therapy is typically performed by a chiropractor.

Ice Therapy: Applying cold or ice packs helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.

Physical Therapy: You doctor may prescribe physical therapy or show you how to do exercises that are designed to relieve sciatic pain. These exercises strengthen the muscles surrounding the sciatic nerve to help your body prevent further injuries.

Medication: You doctor may prescribe pain relievers, muscle relaxers, and anti-inflammatory medications to treat your sciatica.

Combined Treatments: You doctor and chiropractor may work together using more than one treatment option, especially if you have another medical condition that causes your sciatic nerve pain.

Understanding your sciatic nerve pain and the treatment options will help you find the best plan for your circumstances. For more information, contact local professionals like Gerleman Chiropractic Office.