Sciatica Treatment Norwest
Chiropractic treatment that aims to target the root of your sciatica pain.
We’re Here to Address Your Sciatica
Are you experiencing constant or recurrent lower back pain? If it’s travelling from your hip down your leg, it may be sciatica. But you’re not alone: It’s estimated that around five to 10% of low back pain cases are caused by sciatica.
It’s a fairly common condition, but often gets overlooked. At Aurum Health Care, your experienced chiropractor in Norwest, we offer tailored, supportive care that aims to target the cause of your pain in an effort to help you move forward.
Sciatica Treatment
Understanding the Causes of Sciatica
Sciatica is when pain develops along the sciatic nerve. This is a nerve that stems from the root of your lower spine, passing through the hip, down the legs all the way to the foot.
Sciatica occurs when this nerve is irritated or inflamed, usually caused by pressure being placed against the nerve roots. Potential causes include:
Herniated Lumbar Disc
This is one of the most common causes of sciatica. Lumbar disc herniation occurs when one of the cushions between your vertebrae is damaged. When this cushion, or disc, presses against the sciatic nerve, it causes sciatica.
Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis is when a vertebra slips out of place, putting pressure on the vertebra below it. This may also put pressure on the sciatic nerve, leading to sciatica.
Spinal Stenosis
Stenosis causes a narrowing of the blood channel or canals. This may narrow the spinal canal, pinching or putting pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Tumours
Tumours that develop near the sciatic nerve may put additional pressure on it, irritate it, and cause sciatic pain.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy often causes changes to the muscles and ligaments, which may increase the risk of developing sciatica.
Who is Most Likely to Develop Sciatica?
Sciatica may affect almost anyone, but certain risk factors may contribute to it. These include:
- People aged 20 to 50 are more likely to develop herniated discs
- Being overweight may place additional pressure on the spine
- Jobs that require a lot of heavy lifting, prolonged sitting, or twisting may contribute
- People living with diabetes may be at a higher risk
Sciatic Nerve Pain Symptoms
Sciatic pain may show up almost anywhere along the nerve pathway. Most often it radiates from around the buttocks to your knees or feet. In some cases, pain may worsen after coughing, sneezing, or bending.
Other common symptoms of sciatica may include:
- Sudden shooting pain in the buttocks
- Aches or burning sensations
- Lower back pain and muscular tension
- Leg numbness or tingling
- Leg or foot weakness
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
Care Tailored to Your Sciatica
Your chiropractor will take the time to understand your symptoms and conduct a thorough physical examination in an effort to determine the cause of your pain and the most appropriate treatment plan for you. This may include:
Chiropractic Care
Using manual techniques, soft tissue therapy, and gentle stretches, chiropractic care may help improve muscle strength and tension, relieving pain.
Dry Needling
This is an evidence-based technique your chiropractor may use, where they insert fine needles into muscle trigger points. It aims to relieve tension and promote circulation, potentially easing sciatic nerve irritation.
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses an acoustic pulse applied to specific areas to stimulate the muscles and potentially relieve symptoms.
Ultrasound Treatment
Ultrasound therapy uses sound waves, applied to specific muscle groups, that may stimulate blood flow, ease tension, and promote your recovery.
Answering Your Sciatica Questions
How is sciatica diagnosed?
We take time to understand your symptoms, then complete a thorough physical assessment to potentially find the root cause. In some cases, imaging or nerve conduction tests may help confirm the affected nerve and rule out other conditions.
How long does it take to address sciatica?
Recovery varies with the cause and severity. Many people improve over a few weeks with conservative treatment like spinal adjustments and manual therapy, while complex cases may take longer.
Do I need surgery for sciatica?
For most people, no. Sciatica often responds well to non-invasive treatment that reduces symptoms and improves mobility, without prescription medications or surgical procedures.
Can sciatica cause permanent nerve damage?
Severe pressure left unaddressed carries a small risk of nerve damage, so symptoms like worsening leg weakness or loss of bladder or bowel control need prompt care.
What can I do at home to potentially ease sciatica?
Gentle stretching exercises, staying active, and correcting poor posture may all help reduce symptoms. Your chiropractor will guide you on which movements may suit your situation.
Our Approach to Your Care
In-Depth Assessments
With over a decade of experience, we conduct thorough assessments and review your medical history to potentially help determine the cause of your pain.
Tailored Support
We tailor your treatment plan to your needs, preferences, and goals, supporting your health and comfort every step of the way.
Continuous Care
Our care goes further than appointments; we’ll offer tailored strategies and advice to help you continue your health journey at home.
Aurum Health Care
Don’t Let Sciatica Hold You Back
If you’re experiencing any kind of pain, don’t let it go unanswered. At Aurum Health Care, your experienced chiropractors in Norwest, we’re here to help you understand your pain and find a way forward, no matter what you’re going through.