Sciatica is a medical condition that impacts a large part of the population at some time during their life. However, aging is a large contributing factor to this condition. When impacted, your sciatic nerve, which can create pain across your lower back, buttocks, and down one or both legs, can be quite debilitating. At Wright Family Chiropractic, Dr. James Wright, Dr. Tyler Wright, and a team of chiropractic professionals in Austin or Cedar Park, TX offer various noninvasive treatments to help relieve sciatica symptoms as well as help avoid future flare-ups.
What is Sciatica?
More specifically, sciatica refers to a specific set of symptoms created when your sciatic nerve – which holds the distinction of being the body’s largest, is irritated or inflamed. The sciatic nerve, of which there is one on each side, originates in the lower portion of your back and travels down each leg, branching into smaller nerves as it nears your feet.
Sciatic pain typically manifests as a result of a trauma - like a back injury or a bulging/herniated disc, among others.
How Chiropractors Help Relieve Sciatica Pain?
Chiropractors have several complementary, alternative therapies available that can effectively reduce sciatic nerve inflammation or pressure and, thus, pain. At Wright Family Chiropractic, we may provide one or a combination of these chiropractic services, depending on the cause of sciatica and your current symptoms -
- Mechanical Traction
- Spinal Decompression
- Cryotherapy
- Class IV Laser Therapy
- Instrument adjustments
In addition to the above treatments, sciatica symptoms can be best managed with progressive rehabilitation, which may include low-level laser therapy – that emits light that promotes healing and reduces inflammation.
Managing Sciatica with Self-Care
When you have a chiropractor or medical doctor’s approval, the following suggestions are helpful ways to minimize symptoms and avoid future sciatic events -
- Rest – although taking it easy seems like an obvious suggestion, rest is necessary immediately after an injury.
- Apply Heat/Ice – NOTE – do NOT apply heat or ice on the skin without protection.
- Ice reduces inflammation and may help immediately after an injury.
- Heat promotes blood flow/healing.
- Gentle stretching to retain flexibility.
- Gentle exercising can help lessen pain and strengthen the core muscles that support your spine/back.
Contact a Leading Austin Chiropractor Near You
If you are experiencing back and leg pain and think it may be sciatica-related, reach out to Wright Family Chiropractic at 512-426-5695 (for our Austin office), 512-249-8800 (for our Cedar Park Office) or if you prefer, contact our team of chiropractic professionals online.