What is Sciatica and what can I do about it In Shawano WI?

Hello everyone it's Dr. Aeric and I wanted to take some time to talk about a condition that we as chiropractors see often while treating patients in Shawano WI.

What Is Sciatica In Shawano WI?

A sharp pain shooting down one or both legs, uncomfortable when sitting down, waking up at night from pain down the legs… these are just some of the descriptions we hear when patients are dealing with sciatica! In this article we will look into different causes of sciatica, the different symptoms that present, and treatments that can relieve this condition.

The sciatic nerves are the largest nerves in the body and are responsible for both motor and sensory function for the lower extremities. The nerve roots that make up the sciatic nerves span from L4 to L5 and S1 through S3. These 5 nerve roots join together just outside the spine and continue on as the sciatic nerves, down both the left and right legs. This means that the lumbar spine and the sacrum are crucial to the health and function of the sciatic nerves.

Sciatica occurs when irritation or compression is applied to the sciatic nerve. The nerve then responds and symptoms follow. Symptoms include pain, numbness or tingling down the path of the nerve, spasm of the muscles the sciatic nerve innervates, and difficulty walking or sitting.

What Causes Sciatica?

Irritation of this nerve can occur from multiple origins. Degenerative disc disease and facet arthritis in the lower lumbar spine can lead to decreased space for the nerve roots to exit the central canal. Disc herniations and disc bulges following trauma can also cause sciatica symptoms. Tightness of the piriformis, one of the main external rotators of the hip, can cause similar symptoms because the nerve passes directly underneath the belly of that muscle.

How can we help with this?

These are all conditions that respond very well to chiropractic care! Adjustments of both the lumbar spine and the pelvis can release the compression of these nerves. Massage is used to help relieve muscle tension (of the piriformis and surrounding muscles), and nerve floss stretching can help mobilize the nerves to alleviate adhesions that would be adding to the inflammation.

Give us a call or send us a message if you or someone you know is dealing with sciatica! There is plenty we can do to help!