The medical condition known as sciatica refers to irritation of the sciatic nerve. When compressed, the sciatic nerve creates pain, often reaching debilitating levels in the lower back and down one leg. At Champion Chiropractic in Cave Creek, AZ, Dr. Colleen Krahl offers a variety of non-invasive chiropractic and complementary treatment options that provide relief from current sciatica symptoms and help prevent future flare-ups.
The Potential Causes of Sciatica
The sciatic nerve holds the distinction of being the body's longest. It originates in one’s lower back, extends through each leg, and can cause mild to intense pain when irritated or compressed.
Sciatica pain is typically sourced from one of the following causes -
- Age.
- A back injury or trauma.
- Degenerative Disc Disease.
- Spinal Stenosis.
- Sedentary lifestyle.
- Carrying excess weight.
- One’s occupation/prolonged sitting.
- A herniated disc, to name a few.
As noted above, sciatica causes vary, so an accurate diagnosis typically requires a comprehensive evaluation by a chiropractor or other healthcare professional.
How Can a Cave Creek Chiropractor Relieve Sciatica Pain?
Chiropractors use different techniques to relieve sciatic nerve pressure. Patients may get one or a combination of these services -
- Chiropractic adjustments effectively shift the space between spinal discs, reducing the pressure on the nerve.
- Massage Therapy –
- Deep Tissue Massage.
- Relaxation Massage.
- Swedish Massage.
- Sports Massage.
- Spinal Decompression.
- Cold Laser Therapy.
- Therapeutic Ultrasound.
- Electric Muscle Stimulation.
- Interferential Current Therapy.
- Microcurrent Therapy.
- Therapeutic Exercises, and more.
Additionally, Dr. Krahl offers guidance regarding ways to take a proactive personal approach to help prevent another sciatica flare-up – i.e., proper posture or lifting techniques.
Self-Care for Sciatica
With the approval of a chiropractor, these essential self-care options are often helpful in managing symptoms and preventing future flare-ups -
- Rest – Avoid movements that may worsen your symptoms/condition.
- Hot and Cold Therapy - Ice helps reduce inflammation, while heat tends to enhance blood flow to the affected area. Cold or hot therapies should not be applied directly to the skin.
- Gentle Stretching – Stretching helps maintain flexibility and range of motion as you age.
- Gentle Exercise - Research suggests moderate exercise helps reduce sciatica pain while strengthening your core muscles.
Contact a Local Cave Creek, AZ, Chiropractor for Sciatica Relief.
You don't have to give up your active lifestyle due to sciatic pain and related symptoms. For more information, contact Dr. Krahl or a staff member of Champion Chiropractic at 480-595-0001 or online.