Frequently Asked Questions About Sciatica
If you live in Philadelphia and suffer from sciatica, then we can help. At Oxford Rehabilitation Center we have helped people in the greater Philadelphia area just like you to overcome a plethora of causes of pain … including sciatica.
What is Sciatica?
The term sciatica refers to a problem with the sciatic nerve – a large nerve that runs down the back of each leg from the lower back – that causes patently characteristic back pain. When pressure is put on this nerve or it is injured, it causes pain in the lower back that radiates down the leg and into the hip and buttocks.
What are the symptoms of Sciatica?
Sciatica most commonly presents with pain in the lower back that is radiated down through the buttocks, hip, and the leg on that side. This pain is often made worse by sneezing, coughing, and/or sitting for extended periods. In addition, sciatica may also cause the leg on the affected side to feel tingly, weak, or numb.
These symptoms often appear suddenly and may last for several weeks at a time if unaddressed. Often, sufferers find sciatica pain irritating but infrequent, however, there is always the potential for this to worsen. In fact, for some, this pain can be debilitating and severe.
What are the causes of Sciatica?
There are a number of causes of sciatica that include certain conditions and injuries.
The most common cause is a herniated disc. These cushions are located between the vertebrae of the spine. When the gel-like center of this disc is pushed through its tough outer lining it often presses on the sciatic nerve roots. Disc herniation occurs naturally over time with the wear and tear of everyday life but may also happen suddenly due to an accident and/or injury.
Age also leads to spinal stenosis. This natural narrowing of the spinal canal is due to the wearing down of vertebrae over time. It puts pressure on the sciatic nerve roots which can lead to sciatica.
Other common causes of sciatica include infection, injuries like fractures, or muscle inflammation. Essentially, anything that puts pressure on the sciatic nerve has the potential to cause sciatica.
How Can a Chiropractor Help?
The goal of treatment provided by a chiropractor is to restore the body to a point where it can heal itself. It utilizes an integrated approach to healing and treatment methods that are non-invasive and drug-free in nature.
The type of chiropractic treatment used to treat sciatica depends upon the cause of the condition. It may include therapies like spinal manipulation, ultrasound therapy, TENS treatment, and stretching exercises.
Call Oxford Rehabilitation Center Today!
Stop by the offices of Oxford Rehabilitation Center in Philadelphia, call our helpful professional staff at 215-725-2000, or schedule an appointment online now.