Sciatica is the umbrella term that describes severe ongoing leg pain stemming from the low back or the buttock area and can spread to the thigh, lower leg and even foot. In severe cases, it may accompany symptoms such as pins and needles or numbness sensation spreading down the lower limb.
The term sciatica takes its name from the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body which originates at the nerve roots of the lower back in the spinal cord and runs down the buttocks to the lower limbs.
As we have discussed before, these are the commonly believed main causes, however, it may not be the true origin of your sciatic nerve symptoms. You may have been told the following before:
Herniated Disc – The most common cause of sciatica is a result of a herniated disc (slipped disc) when the soft inner jelly like substance leaks out and presses against, or irritates the nerve root. Other causes of the same irritation to the sciatic nerve can occur from tumors, infection around the spine, injury, or even during pregnancy.
Degenerative disc Disease – Although a natural process that occurs with age, a weakened disc can irritate a nerve root from excessive micro-motion and inflammatory proteins inside the disc becoming exposed.
Lumbar spinal stenosis – Another common cause of sciatica in adults is the narrowing of the spinal canal from an overgrowth of soft tissue, bulging disc or enlarged facet joints placing pressure on the sciatic nerve.
At Silky Oak Chiropractic I offer non-invasive and nonsurgical treatment options to obtain the best possible result for you.
During a comprehensive examination of your individual symptoms, we will be able to commence a treatment plan once our spine consultant has identified the true origin of your sciatica. Some of our treatment plans may include exercises, spinal joint mobilisation or soft tissue trigger point therapy.
If you’ve been recommended for spinal surgery (either a Discectomy or Laminectomy) for your sciatica conditions it is worth while getting a second opinion. Often the long term results of conservative care can be as good, if not better than surgery.
You can simply book on-line, or request a Free 5 min Phone Consultation if you are not sure.
