While most people have heard of sciatica, many are surprised to learn that it is really a kind of pain, not a specific diagnosis. This condition sometimes disrupts even normal daily routines. Fortunately, chiropractic treatment at our Circle Chiropractic Center, PC in Fairfax can bring patients relief without the need for medication or surgery.
Understanding Sciatica
Sciatica is actually a sign that something is amiss in the body. When the sciatic nerve becomes compressed or even irritated, the result is often sciatic nerve pain. This nerve, one of the longest in the body, originates in the lower portion of the spine where nerve roots join.
Our chiropractor notes that the sciatic discomfort a patient experiences links to a particular misalignment of the spine. These are the most common causes:
- Misaligned vertebrae
- Disc herniation`
- Degenerative disc disease
- Spondylolisthesis
Other potential culprits include sacroiliac joint dysfunction, a lumbar herniated disc, piriformis syndrome, and lumbar spinal stenosis.
Sciatic symptoms vary considerably among our patients. Some report constant pain, while others experience only periodic discomfort. All symptoms trace to the point where nerve compression or irritation occurs. Typical symptoms include:
- Continuous pain on one side of a buttock or leg but usually not both
- Difficulty walking due to severe or shooting leg pain
- Pain that worsens when standing or sitting
- Pain in the lower back that is less severe than leg pain
- Prickling or numbness or a sensation of weakness running along a leg
- Toe pain
- Pain that originates in the lower back or buttock, travels down the back of the thigh and runs down the affected leg into the foot
- Weakness or numbness when trying to move a foot or a leg
Sciatic Nerve Pain Treatment
Chiropractic treatment of sciatic nerve pain rests on the principle of helping the body to heal itself rather than relying on medication or surgery. At an initial consultation, our doctor addresses the cause of this pain in order to decrease nerve pressure, stop the pain, and improve mobility.
Some of the techniques we use include:
- Chiropractic adjustments
- Acupuncture
- Laser therapy
- Spinal decompression
- Massage therapy
- Prescribed corrective exercises
Treatment plans typically include adjustments and a combination of these additional therapies. They always address the cause of sciatic pain, not just the patient’s symptoms.
Schedule a Consultation with Our Fairfax Chiropractor!
Don’t let discomfort force you to abandon the lifestyle you love. Non-invasive, holistic care at our Circle Chiropractic Center, PC in Fairfax can help you reach optimum health and wellness. Our chiropractor, Dr. Christopher Frey, designs a customized treatment plan utilizing state-of-the-art equipment and therapies for each patient. Be sure to call us today at 703-385-2990 to schedule an appointment.