Sciatica is a condition that occurs when the spinal nerve gets compressed and causes symptoms like pain in the lower back, hips, buttocks, and legs. The pain may feel like an electric shock, pins and needles, or a burning sensation and it can be constant or come and go. Symptoms can also include numbness, tingling, and weakness. It is important to get diagnosed if you are experiencing these symptoms because the longer it goes untreated, the more damage can be done to the nerve and could lead to long-term problems such as incontinence or loss of functional mobility.
Chiropractors use a range of techniques to help patients overcome sciatica, such as spinal manipulation. They will work to discover the source of the pain and its intensity and frequency. They will also create a long-term treatment plan that works toward natural alignment for the body.
During spinal manipulation, chiropractors will make small adjustments to the joints of the spine and pelvis to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve. They may also use massage therapy to loosen the tight muscles in the area and reduce pain. They may also use ultrasound therapy, which uses sound waves to increase circulation and decrease muscle spasms. They can also use TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation), which is a box-shaped device that sends an electrical current to control pain and spasms.
Besides spinal manipulation, chiropractors will also prescribe core and postural exercises to strengthen the muscles that support the spine and pelvis. This will help offset the excess pressure on the herniated discs and prevent them from getting worse over time. sciatica chiropractor