Sciatica is a condition that causes pain along the vertebrae, and this can occur from inflammation, injury, or compression. Here’s what causes sciatica to flare up, how to prevent it, and why you should consider chiropractic treatment for pain relief!
What is Sciatica?
Sciatica is a condition where pain shoots down the leg from the lower back into the buttocks or groin. The pain usually radiates along the sciatic nerve, causing tingling and numbness in the legs. Sciatica is caused by compression of the sciatic nerve due to inflammation, injury, or degeneration of the spinal cord or its supporting structures. Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve (which runs from the spine through the buttock) becomes compressed, and this causes the nerves to become irritated, resulting in pain and discomfort. Anyone suffering from sciatica pain can tell you it’s one of the most debilitating irritations.
What Causes Sciatica to Flare-Up?
- Herniated Disk
The most common cause of sciatica is a herniated disk; this refers to a bone spur that occurs along the spine, compressing the nerve or narrowing the vertebrae. Numbness, inflammation, and pain can occur around the affected area when this happens.
- Inactivity and Sitting
The effects of bad posture, sitting for long periods, or failing to maintain a regularly active lifestyle can increase the risk of experiencing sciatica symptoms. For people who have to work remotely or sit for long periods of time in an office setting, maintaining proper posture is key to preventing sciatica. It’s also good to regularly move your body, particularly targeting your core muscles.
- Age
The natural progression of age can be a contributing factor to sciatica. As you age, changes begin to occur along the spine. The previously mentioned causes can also work together to create sciatica symptoms as one begins to age.
Learn How Acupuncture for Sciatica Is an Effective Treatment Option!
Chiropractic Treatment
Can chiropractors help a pinched nerve? Yes! Chiropractors use a variety of techniques to relieve chronic pain associated with sciatica. One of these methods is manual therapy, and this is a form of massage that reduces inflammation and decreases pain coming from the pinched nerve.
If you’ve been looking for a chiropractor in Quincy, Weymouth Chiropractor and Wellness Center may be able to help! Our in-house licensed chiropractor Dr. Jessica Rosner would love to speak with you if you’ve been living with chronic pain related to sciatica. We also have professional, licensed sports injury chiropractors on-site for athletes dealing with sciatica pain.
Contact us to learn more about our chiropractic treatment options!