Understanding Sciatica

What IS sciatica?

Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve is compressed, often due to a joint dysfunction in the lumbar spine or pelvis. It may also be caused by a herniated disc, bone spur on the spine, or narrowing of the spine (spinal stenosis). The nerve compression causes inflammation, pain, and often some numbness in the affected leg. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and are often exacerbated by prolonged sitting, standing, or movements that strain the lower back.

How do we know where the problem is?

There can be more than one cause of sciatic nerve pain. The disc may be irritated, the piriformis muscle may be contracted, or a facet joint in the lumbar spine may be compressed. There may also be a mechanical joint dysfunction or misalignment of the lumbar spine creating inflammation around the nerve.

Will I need an MRI?

The answer to this question is sometimes yes and sometimes no. Often, by understanding the patient’s pain presentation and conducting a thorough examination, you can determine the affected nerve root. From there, you can cater a treatment plan to alleviate the pressure on the involved nerve. However, if a patient does not respond as expected to care or shows more severe signs, such as muscle weakness or atrophy, an MRI may be ordered.

While most health insurance plans cover the cost of an MRI, almost all will require six weeks of conservative care, which can include physical therapy and/or chiropractic care. Most patients respond to care within this six-week period, and if they don’t, insurance will approve an MRI.

Chiropractic Care for Sciatica

Once a physical examination has been completed to determine which nerve root is most affected, chiropractic treatment can begin. Through a series of chiropractic adjustments, we can alleviate the causes of nerve compression, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain.

Sciatic nerve pain is kind of like a kink in a garden hose. You may be trying to water some flowers, but no water is coming out because of a kink in the hose. Chiropractic care will remove the kink in that hose. At Desert Valley Chiropractic, we specialize in a gentle, specific approach to removing the pressure on the sciatic nerve through:

• Spinal Adjustments: Chiropractors use precise adjustments to correct misalignments in the hips, pelvis, and spine, which can relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve. These adjustments help restore proper spinal alignment, improving overall function and reducing pain.

  The Activator Adjusting Instrument has also been shown to reduce inflammation in the facet joints and nerve roots. A reduction in swelling is key to healing and reducing pressure on the nerve root.

• Physical Rehabilitation: We recommend specific stretches and exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting the spine and improve flexibility. These exercises can help prevent future flare-ups and provide long-term relief from sciatica symptoms.
• Modalities: We may use electric muscle stimulation in the lumbar spine to help reduce pain and muscle spasms.
• Cold and Heat Therapy: Alternating between cold and heat therapy can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Chiropractors may use these therapies in conjunction with other treatments to enhance their effectiveness.
• Lifestyle Advice: We provide guidance on ergonomics, posture, and activities of daily living that can help reduce strain on your back and prevent sciatic nerve irritation.