Most Common Symptoms of Sciatica

Most Common Symptoms of Sciatica

Sciatica is a condition that affects the sciatic nerve. This condition often occurs if you have suffered a herniated disc, a bone spur on the spine, or spinal stenosis which is a narrowing of the spine. Our chiropractor at Hull Chiropractic in Indianapolis, IN can help treat sciatica. 

What Are the Symptoms of Sciatica?

Sciatica causes pain that radiates down the sciatic never. The pain typically starts in your lower back and radiates through your hips and buttocks, down through one of your legs. In most cases, this condition only affects one side of your body. Some people who suffer from sciatica report swelling and numbness in the affected leg. Many people with sciatica say that the pain feels like an electric shock or a jolt.

Sciatic nerve pain ranges from mild to severe. In more severe cases, the pain can make getting around difficult. In serious cases, it is also possible to suffer from bowel or bladder changes. The pain from sciatica often becomes worse when you cough, sneeze or stand for long periods of time.

What Are the Risk Factors of Sciatica?

While anyone can get sciatica, there are certain risk factors that put you more at risk.

Age: As you get older, your spine can change causing bone spurs and herniated discs which are common causes of the condition.

Obesity: As you gain weight, you will put excess stress on your spine. This can cause the spinal changes that trigger sciatica.

Occupation: If you have a job that requires you to carry heavy loads, twist your back often, or drive a vehicle for long periods of time, it could trigger sciatica.

Prolonged Sitting: If you live a sedentary lifestyle, you are more likely to develop sciatica than an active person.

How Can a Chiropractor Treat Sciatica?

If you are suffering from sciatica, a chiropractor can help. There are several methods of treatment that the chiropractor can use to help.

Chiropractic adjustment: A adjustment can help reduce the nerve irritability that causes the pain, muscle spasms, and inflammation.

Ice/Cold therapy: This treatment method can reduce pain and inflammation.

Ultrasound: Ultrasound waves can improve circulation and reduce cramping, stiffness, swelling, pain, and the frequency of muscle spasms.

TENS unit: A tens unit is a muscle stimulating machine that can reduce pain and muscle spasms.

Contact Hull Chiropractic in Indianapolis, IN Today!

If you are suffering from sciatica, you should contact Hull Chiropractic. Our chiropractor will perform a physical exam to create a treatment plan to help relieve your nerve pain. After your first appointment, you should start feeling some relief. Over time, we will have you living a pain-free life.