Sciatica Treatment with Your Midtown New York Chiropractor

Sciatica is a type of pain impacting the sciatic nerve, and it is often a symptom of another underlying medical condition. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body; it runs from the lower spine to the lower limbs. This nerve allows you to feel sensation in the major muscles of the feet, legs, and hamstrings. Sciatica is a pain or inflammation of this nerve, typically affecting the legs and lower back.

Causes of Sciatica

Sciatica can be caused by spinal disc herniation, also known as a slipped disc. Disc herniation places stress on the sacral or lumbar roots, leading to pain in the spine. Spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, piriformis syndrome, pregnancy and spinal tumors are all medical conditions that can result in sciatica as well. Sciatica can happen as a result of a violent injury like an auto accident or a sports fall.

Risk Factors for Sciatica

Aging populations are at a greater risk of developing sciatica due to spinal degeneration. The risk of disc herniation or spinal disease increases with age. Obesity is another major risk factor, as a higher weight tends to place more physical stress on the spine. Those who work blue color jobs that require frequent physical activity are also at a higher risk of developing sciatica. Diabetic people also run a risk of causing more nerve damage to the spine.

Symptoms of Sciatica

A severe and sudden pain felt in the lower back, legs, or buttocks could be a sign of sciatica. Muscle weakness, numbness, and tingling in these areas are also common.

Prevention Methods

Leading a healthy lifestyle is the best way of avoiding a condition like sciatica. Implementing certain back exercises could do a lot to strengthen the spine. It’s also important to maintain good postural habits.

Treatment for Sciatica

While most people are able to recover from sciatica, it is a condition that should be treated by a doctor or else you risk permanent nerve damage. That nerve damage could mean a total loss of sensation in your legs or lower back. In order to detect sciatica, your chiropractor may order image testing like X-rays, CT scans, EMGs, or MRIs for a diagnosis. There are various treatment options for sciatica, including medications, physical therapy, steroid injection, and even surgery. You can discuss appropriate treatment options with your chiropractor.

Schedule an Appointment with Your Manhattan Chiropractor

Balanced Health Medical is a chiropractic center that serves New York areas like Midtown and the Upper East Side. This includes areas like 10017, 10019, 10020, 10022, and 10036. If you suspect that you have sciatica, or you’re experiencing general neck or back pain, feel free to call us at (212) 755-1717 for an immediate appointment.