Sciatica is a type of back pain that starts in the lower back and can travel all the way down to your lower leg. You may experience back pain, pain in your buttocks, and hip pain as a constant sensation or at random times. The issue can be debilitating and make it difficult to go about your daily life. At West Buffalo Chiropractic in Buffalo, NY, our chiropractor is familiar with the causes and resulting issues that are brought on by sciatica. Here's a look at how sciatica happens and how a chiropractor can help.
How Sciatica Starts
The basic cause of sciatica is when the spine falls out of alignment and puts pressure on the sciatic nerve roots. The sciatic nerves exit the spine in the lower or lumbar spine region and combine together as they make their way through your pelvis and down the back of your legs. When the vertebrae in the lumbar spine tilt to one side or the other, they press on the sciatic nerve roots and cause pain.
Common Signs of Sciatica
Sciatica features distinct signs and is usually felt on one side of the body only. The vertebrae typically tilt to one side, putting pressure on the sciatic nerve roots on that side of the body. However, it's possible to experience sciatica on both sides of the body, depending on what's causing your vertebrae to tilt or collapse in the first place.
Sciatica presents with different types of pain, but they're always below the waistline and can reach as far as the foot and toes. Some of the types of pain associated with the condition include:
• Tingling or pins and needles
• Sharp shocks
• Shooting pain
• Low-level chronic pain
The pain can manifest in any of the following regions:
• Lower back
• Hip
• Buttocks
• Back of thigh and calves
• Knee
• Foot
• Ankle
• Toes
How Chiropractic Treatment Helps
Chiropractic treatment involves lifting the vertebrae off the nerve roots and restoring them to their natural alignment. The goal is to encourage the spine to return to its natural alignment and to help the muscles pull evenly once more. This process alleviates the pain, allowing you to walk and sit comfortably once again.
Contact West Buffalo Chiropractic Today
Contact our clinic in Buffalo today at (716) 248-2825 to learn more about how chiropractic care can help you with your sciatica. Our chiropractor is trained in various techniques proven to restore proper spinal alignment and alleviate pain. Chiropractic care is a comprehensive treatment regimen that, when followed, can provide you with long-term relief from sciatica and its associated issues.