Sciatica-Herniated Discs

Sciatica is defined as pain that radiates from the lower back into the buttocks and down the back of one or both legs below the knee. Sciatica is caused by the irritation of the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve of the body. It usually begins as an acute pain in the lower back and then radiates down the back of either or both legs, but can also be present without any lower back pain. The sciatic nerve can be irritated by pressure from a herniated or bulging disc or inflammation originating from an irritated disc. The sciatic nerve can also be compressed by the piriformis muscle in the buttocks. This can cause tremendous pain and normal daily activities become almost impossible.

Symptoms include:

  • Numbness, tingling, burning or pain in the calf or foot.
  • Weakness of the foot.

Home Care Options

  • Icing
  • Stretches: sitting and lying down, partner assisted
  • Orthotics, proper footwear
  • Sleep, sitting and driving ergonomic changes
  • Rehabilitative exercises

Office Care Options

  • Active Release Techniques
  • Graston
  • PNF
  • Massage
  • Mid and low back and Sacroiliac chiropractic joint manipulation
  • Rehabilitative strengthening exercises for the core and feet
  • Custom-molded Biomechanical Orthotics

Healthy Living Tips For Sciatica

Periodic checkups or supportive care. Supporting proper functioning of the low back and pelvis with periodic treatments minimizes the stresses to joints and associated muscles and nerves.

Practice proper posture, lifting and ergonomics. Practicing proper posture, lifting techniques and ergonomics are essential in reducing back injuries at work and play and minimizing future recurrences of past injuries.

Regular exercise. Routine physical activity keeps the body strong and healthy. We will work with you to develop an effective exercise routine that will work with the time you decide to dedicate, and the goals that you set for yourself.

Proper diet and nutrition. Providing your body with the proper fuel increases performance, reduces the likelihood of injury and sickness, speeds recovery after injury, and keeps you feeling good. It may be time to add whole food supplements to your diet.

Utilize stress management techniques. Stress is most often carried in the weakest areas of your body. While stress can’t be totally eliminated, there are effective techniques to help bring it under control.

Proper footwear or orthotics. It is very important that the arch of the foot is properly supported. The arch is the foundation of the body and abnormal function here will translate up to the hip and back.

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