Understanding Sciatica: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

What Is Sciatica?

Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back through your hips and buttocks and down each leg. Typically, sciatica affects only one side of your body.

Common Symptoms

**Radiating pain** from lower back to buttock and down the back of the leg

**Numbness or tingling** in the leg or foot

**Muscle weakness** in the affected leg

**Burning or shooting pain** that worsens with prolonged sitting

**Difficulty moving** the leg or foot

What Causes Sciatica?

Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve becomes pinched or irritated. Common causes include:

1. **Herniated disc** - The most common cause

2. **Bone spurs** - Overgrowth on the vertebrae

3. **Spinal stenosis** - Narrowing of the spinal canal

4. **Piriformis syndrome** - Muscle spasm in the buttock

5. **Pregnancy** - Pressure from the growing uterus

Risk Factors

Age (disc degeneration)

Obesity (increased spinal stress)

Prolonged sitting

Diabetes

Heavy lifting occupations

Treatment Options

Conservative Treatments

Most cases of sciatica resolve with non-surgical treatments:

**Chiropractic adjustments** to relieve nerve pressure

**Spinal decompression** for disc-related sciatica

**Physical therapy** to strengthen supporting muscles

**Ice and heat therapy** to reduce inflammation

**Stretching exercises** to improve flexibility

Advanced Treatments

For persistent cases, we offer:

**MLS Laser Therapy** - Reduces inflammation at the cellular level

**Shockwave Therapy** - Promotes healing in chronic cases

**Trigenics** - Neuromuscular treatment for lasting relief

When to Seek Immediate Care

Seek emergency care if you experience:

Sudden, severe pain in your lower back or leg

Numbness or muscle weakness in your leg

Loss of bladder or bowel control

Pain following a violent injury

At Premier Chiropractic, we specialize in treating sciatica without surgery or medication. Schedule your evaluation today.