Dispelling Myths About Sciatica
By Randi Morse
Dealing with pain from sciatica can truly affect your life. While some medical conditions have a clear-cut treatment plan, sciatica is one of those situations that needs to be taken on a case by case basis. This is because there are several different conditions that can cause the nerve root compression that accounts for sciatica pain. Let's dispel a few myths about sciatica.
Myth: There's Only One Treatment
Fact: There are multiple treatment options for someone suffering from sciatica. Many patients find that a combination of chiropractic treatments and physical therapy can help to take the pressure off the sciatic nerve, relieving the patient of their pain. Other common treatments include anti-inflammatory medications and heat and ice therapy.
Myth: Sciatica Doesn't Require Treatment to Go Away
Fact: While it is true that there are some situations where sciatica may disappear on its own, it is much more common for a person to find fast relief with chiropractic treatment.
Myth: I Shouldn't Exercise if I'm Dealing With Sciatic Pain
Fact: It can be difficult to even think about exercising when you are hurting, and some people believe that if they're dealing with sciatic pain they should simply stay in bed. This is far from the truth. While it is true that you should remain pretty relaxed the first day or two of a sciatic flare-up, the longer you are immobile, the more pain you're going to be in and the more difficult it will be to reverse the health problem. Exercising correctly, even when you have sciatic flare-up, can help to get the nutrients flowing through your body and spinal discs, which helps to keep them healthy. Some stretching and strengthening, and even some light aerobic exercise, can help keep your back healthy so that hopefully you won't be dealing with a sciatic flare-up again.
Myth: You Don't Need a Professional for Sciatic Pain
Fact: A common misunderstanding people have when it comes to sciatica is that they believe they don't need to speak with a professional about their pain. The problem with this is that there are a number of different conditions which can cause sciatica. Sciatica is not a condition; it is a symptom. It is by speaking with a professional, such as an experienced chiropractor, that you will not only be able to have help getting rid of your sciatic pain, you will also work together to resolve the underlying condition that caused it.
If you have been dealing with sciatic pain, it is a good idea to speak with a professional. An experienced chiropractor will be able to help you determine what may be causing your sciatica and can help to relieve you of your pain.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Phoenix, Ariz.