Sciatica and Chiropractic, A pain in the Bum
Chances are you know someone who has suffered from “sciatica” at some point in their lives, and it can be a complicated thing to treat, because there are several possible causes. Sciatica is an umbrella term for pain in the sciatic nerve- symptoms can include a sharp or stabbing pain down the back of the leg to the foot/toes. Tingling, numbness, and weakness can be included, and these symptoms can seriously decrease the sufferers quality of life and daily mobility.
Sciatica is the result of an irritation to the sciatic nerve, which is a large nerve originating in the lower back (L4-S3 Nerve roots). It is the longest and widest nerve in the human body. Sciatica will effect 2.2% of the general population, and approximately 10% of Low back pain sufferers will have some variation of sciatic nerve pain [1]. According to a systematic literature review 60% of sciatica resolved after 3 months, but 30% of patients pain continued for more than 1 year [1].
Because the cause of Sciatica can be varied, it is important that the treatment that a patient is receiving is targeted at the cause. Chiropractic treatment for sciatica will generally involve a soft tissue therapy such as massage, instrument assisted, Dry needling or an active release style treatment. The goal here is to reduce any overactive muscles that may be adding pressure or restricting movement. Chiropractic spinal adjustments are then used to restore normal range of motion to joints that are not moving properly, which can reduce inflammation and decrease the pain response. The treatment regimen is tailored to each patient and can be as gentle as is needed based on the individuals tolerances.
TPM Chiropractic management doesn’t finish when you walk out the door. The Chiropractor may prescribe some rehabilitation exercises, specific stretches or home muscle release techniques with props like a massage ball or foam roller to assist in getting patients out of pain, and back to function. This may also extend to Ergonomic or postural advice, as the right advice can go a long way towards reducing re injury rates. Working closely with the TPM Physio team to get the best results for our patients is a core value of TPM Chiro.
Sometimes, The root cause of sciatica occurs outside a Chiropractors scope of practice. If we determine that you may require treatment from a specialist or surgeon you will be referred on appropriately, and where suitable we may continue to co manage your condition providing relief from sciatica symptoms while the other doctors address the root cause.
Book Now at TPM Chiropractic or TPM Physiotherapy to assist your Sciatica today.
