Seek Chiropractic Treatment for Your Sciatica Pain
By Stephen R. Farris
Do you really know what sciatica is? Chances are you may not. It's not a condition, but rather a symptom caused by other things going on in your lower back. Those conditions, for instance, could include lower lumbar or bulging discs pressing on the sciatic nerve. The pain can feel excruciating. It may be painful when you move a certain way, or the pain could last all day and night.
Most sciatica pain goes away in a few months, but could last up to six months or even a year if left untreated. If the pain lasts longer than three months, it's probably time you seek out medical help in the form of your primary care physician or local chiropractor.
What Actually Causes Sciatica?
Reiterating from earlier, sciatica pain is usually caused by other lower back conditions. Those conditions could be from:
- A herniated disc
- Lumbar spinal stenosis
- Spondylolisthesis
- Trauma involving the spinal cord
- Piriformis syndrome
- Spinal tumor
Other conditions that are lesser known, but could be the source cause of sciatica are:
- Endometriosis
- Infections in the spine and/or spinal column
- Nerve damage from diabetes
- Movement of the fetus during pregnancy
- Side effects from medication
What Are the Risks of Developing Sciatica?
Studies indicate your risk of developing sciatica may depend on your genetic make-up, physical build, and the type of lifestyle you live. Your age can become a risk factor. The older we get, the chances of having back problems increases. Being obese can be a risk factor as well. Carrying too much (or excess) weight can cause your core to weaken, which in turn does affect the lower back. Even the type of job or activities you participate in could increase your risks of developing sciatica.
Can You Treat Sciatica?
The answer is yes. In rare instances some sciatica sufferers may require surgery. But for the most part, sciatica can be treated either by over-the-counter medications, or by all-natural methods such as chiropractic treatments and exercise. The problem with OTCs is the possibility of becoming addicted to them. With chiropractic treatment, which you can experience at The Joint Chiropractic, doctors of chiropractic medicine use an all-natural, noninvasive, non-addictive, gentle, hands-on approach by manipulating the spine and joints to get it back in proper alignment, thus providing relief from the pain(s) you might be feeling.
If you're suffering from sciatica or general pain in your back, neck, and joints, visit any of the more than 600 nationwide locations The Joint Chiropractic has to offer. Walk-ins are always welcome and there's no worrying about hassling with your insurance company, as The Joint Chiropractic has several payment options to choose from that won't break your checkbook.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Las Vegas, Nev.