Sciatica is another name for the pain that spreads along the sciatic nerve, a large nerve extending from the lower back down the back of both legs. However, sciatica typically only affects one side of the body.
Causes of Sciatica:
- Old age: Herniated disks and bone spurs are common medical conditions within senior citizens. These medical conditions directly affect the spine and can cause sciatica.
- Daily life: Do you sit at a desk for long periods of time? Maybe you lift heavy equipment at work? No matter what type of activities your day consists of, poor posture, obesity and weak muscles can disrupt the spines balance, causing sciatica. Stress and tension can cause the muscles to tighten and contract, resulting in pain, aches and stiffness.
- Diabetes: Diabetes affects the way your body uses blood sugar, thus increasing your risk of nerve damage.
Signs and Symptoms of Sciatica:
- Lower back pain
- Hip pain
- Leg pain
- Weakness, numbness, burning or tickling sensations within the lower body
If you or someone you know is experiencing lower extremity weakness, numbness in the upper thighs, and/or loss of bladder or bowel control, please contact us immediately at (414) 332-6001.
Preventing Sciatica
- Exercise: Keep your back strong by paying attention to your core muscles- the muscles in your abdomen and lower back. These muscles can help maintain proper posture and alignment.
- Proper posture: When sitting, choose a seat with good lower back support, armrests and a swivel base. Have a spare pillow or rolled towel? Place it in the small of your back to maintain your spines normal curvature and remember to keep your knees and hips level.
- Good body mechanics: Do you stand for long periods of time? Occasionally rest one foot on a sturdy surface. When you lift something heavy, remember to hinge by bending at the hips and not at the back, allowing your lower extremities to do the work. Find a partner to help if the object is too heavy or awkward to lift on your own.
Sciatica prevention is not always possible, but taking precaution, protecting your back and regularly visiting your chiropractor is beneficial.
Sciatica Treatment
Avoid going under the knife or swallowing countless harsh painkillers to treat your sciatica. Visit our collaborative team of chiropractors, physical therapists, massage therapists, personal trainers, acupuncturists, exercise rehab specialists, and pain management doctors and let us help you return to the activities you love doing most pain-free.
Additional Sciatica Treatments:
We’ll Treat Your Pain!
Interested in scheduling an appointment? Contact us at (414) 332-6001 or fill out this form. We look forward to join you on your road to recovery.