What is sciatica?
Sciatica occurs when there is compression, inflammation, or irritation affecting one or more nerves that exit the lumbar spine (low back). Sciatica is typically caused by a bulging or herniated disc in the lumbar region of the spine. The sciatic nerve is the longest and thickest nerve in the body, traveling from the lumbar region through the hips and buttocks and down the legs. The pain associated with sciatica can range from a mild ache to a sharp, shooting pain. Often, the pain travels along the path of the nerve and may cause numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness in the lower extremities. At our chiropractic clinic serving Port Charlotte and North Port, Florida, we provide effective treatment for sciatica.
Other conditions that may cause sciatic pain include degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, osteoarthritis, and pregnancy. Approximately 40% of the population experience some form of sciatica or sciatic-like symptoms in their lifetime.
What are the risk factors? There are several factors that may contribute to the development or exacerbation of sciatic pain. These include but are not limited to physical inactivity, previous spinal injuries, excess body weight or obesity, heavy lifting with improper posture, prolonged periods of sitting, and normal age-related wear and tear.
How can we help? Our chiropractors at our Suncoast Chiropractic office in North Port / Port Charlotte have a variety of techniques to help. Techniques often used include Palmer Technique, Diversified, Thompson Drop Technique and Flexion-distraction. We often utilize “Flexion-distraction” as a technique for sciatica as well as general low back pain and other radicular symptoms. The Flexion Distraction Technique affects the spine by widening the spine’s disc space opening, causing decreased pressure within the disc. This process aids in the healing of disc herniations, increases the size of the nerve openings in the spine to help relieve pinched nerves, and helps restore normal range of motion to the joints of the spine. Schedule an appointment with our experienced chiropractors today and take the first step towards a sciatic-free future in Port Charlotte or North Port.