Treating Sciatica Pain with Chiropractic Care

By Donna Stark

Most women will tell you that they can't remember the pain they experienced during the delivery of their child, but when you ask them about their sciatica pain? They will tell you every little detail on how much it hurts. Many will use very colorful language when describing it, some will use powerful adjectives, but all will tell you that it can sometimes be the most unforgiving and unforgettable pain that they have ever experienced. Sciatica can affect men with that same level of pain too. So it goes without saying, no matter what the age or gender, everyone may be at risk without even knowing it.

What is Sciatica?

The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body. It extends from the lower back, through the buttocks, and into the thighs. Its purpose is to provide strength, deliver nerve signals to and from the legs, and connect the leg's major muscles to the spinal cord. When there are problems with the sciatic nerve, it is typically from nerve compression, and when that happens, a person may experience muscle weakness, numbness, and a tremendous amount of pain. In fact, the pain can be so bad that it can become too difficult to really do much of anything. But the one thing that should be done, and as soon as possible, is to head on in to The Joint Chiropractic for some chiropractic care. Here's why.

• Identifies and treats the source of the pain
• Promotes proper alignment of the spine to reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve
• Reduces inflammation and alleviates pain
• Promotes continued health of the spine
• Avoids the use of medications and invasive procedures
• Allows the body to heal itself naturally

Getting Through a Sciatica Episode

In addition to seeing your local chiropractor, there are some things you can do at home when the pain strikes. Let's take a look.

• Rest first, but then ...
• Keep moving, with modifications if needed (inactivity can make it worse)
• Stretch

Reducing the Risk of Sciatic Pain

And while it's important to know who to see and what to do when you suffer from sciatica, there are also some things you can do to reduce the risk of it happening in the first place. Here are some suggestions.

• Exercise regularly
• Practice good posture
• Strengthen your back and core muscles
• Use good body mechanics when lifting or standing for long periods of time
• Avoid a sedentary lifestyle at home and at work
• Eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of non-inflammatory foods

Don't Let Sciatica Win

Even though it's impossible to completely eliminate your risk, it's good to know that there are some simple, proactive steps you can take that will help reduce or keep sciatica pain far away from your life. And with more than 425 convenient locations, no appointment or referral needed, and convenient weekend hours, The Joint Chiropractic is one of them. So come on in today and stay one step ahead of sciatica pain!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Austin, Tex.