If you have sciatica, you are not alone. It is estimated that about 40 percent of America’s adult population has sciatica. Sciatica can often be successfully treated by a doctor or chiropractor. Our team at Carter Chiropractic & Laser Pain Solutions in Greenville, SC, would like to look at what you need to know about sciatica.
Causes of Sciatica
Sciatica is named for the sciatic nerve. This nerve runs from your back down your hips, buttocks, and legs. Sciatica is caused by any problem with your spine that creates pressure on areas of your sciatic nerve. Sometimes, the nerve itself gets damaged.
Risk Factors for Sciatica
You are most at risk for sciatica if you are older, overweight, smoke, often lift heavy objects, sit most of the time, have diabetes, or have experienced back problems. Back problems that lead to sciatica include herniated discs, spinal stenosis, osteoarthritis, and bone spurs. People who do heavy exercises like weight training can get sciatica if they do not use the proper form while lifting weights.
About Sciatic Nerve Pain
Pain is the most common symptom of sciatica. It can differ from person to person. It can be constant or can come and go. It can be burning, sharp, stabbing, or electric in intensity. The pain often gets worse if you have to sit or stand for a long period, or if you make sudden movements, such as when you sneeze.
Other Symptoms of Sciatica
People with sciatica often have other symptoms besides pain. These symptoms include numbness, a constant tingling sensation, and weakness in one or both legs. Many people only have symptoms on one side of the body, but some get them in both. People with sciatica may have difficulty walking or standing.
Chiropractic Treatment for Sciatica
Chiropractors can do many things to resolve your sciatic nerve pain. We gently adjust the spine to reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve. We can help improve your posture so that your spine stays properly aligned after you leave our office. We can also suggest better foods and nutritional supplements to reduce your inflammation and support the healing process.
Contact Our Chiropractors in Greenville, SC
If you are suffering from the symptoms of sciatica and live in the Greenville area, contact Carter Chiropractic & Laser Pain Solutions to schedule a consultation with one of our chiropractors. Call our team today at (864) 268-8196 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.
