Sciatica Specialist

What is sciatica?

Sciatica happens when you injure or put pressure on the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve begins in the lower back, runs through the buttocks and hips, and down each leg. Sciatica, the inflammation of the sciatic nerve, usually affects just one side of your body.

What causes sciatica?

You can develop sciatica in several ways. You can have different triggers at different life stages. These include:

Pregnancy

Many women report sciatica symptoms in the latter stages of pregnancy as the baby grows and presses on the sciatic nerve.

Weight

Excess weight places stress on your spine, which can cause sciatica to flare up.

Lifestyle

If you live a sedentary lifestyle or sit a lot, you’re more likely to develop sciatica.

Diabetes

Diabetes prevents your body from regulating the sugar levels in your blood. Excess blood sugar increases your risk of nerve damage, which can cause sciatica symptoms.

Age

Some age-related spinal conditions, like bone spurs and herniated disks, cause sciatica.

Your doctor at PrimeCare Chiropractic & Physical Therapy will ask about your health history and lifestyle to develop the most appropriate treatment plan.

What are the symptoms of sciatica?

Sciatica symptoms come on suddenly and usually last for days, even weeks. One of the first signs is a pain that travels from the lower back, through the hip and buttocks, and down one leg.

The pain can be anywhere from a mild ache to an electric-shock like agony. You might find the pain gets worse when you sit, cough, and sneeze, and the affected leg can feel numb or weak.

The team at PrimeCare Chiropractic & Physical Therapy has trained extensively in treating and managing sciatica symptoms. Reach out today if you’re struggling to get your symptoms under control.

When should you see your doctor about sciatica?

You can sometimes self-treat sciatica. Over-the-counter medicines, heat packs, and ice packs are all effective ways of easing mild pain and discomfort. However, you should see a professional right away if your pain is the result of an injury, or if you experience any of the following:

• Muscle weakness or numbness in your leg 
• Trouble controlling your bowels or bladder
• Sudden, severe lower back or leg pain
• No improvement from self-treatment

Don't put off seeking help. Partner with PrimeCare Chiropractic & Physical Therapy and receive expert chiropractic support every step of your recovery process. Call the practice to book an appointment, or use the online booking tool.