Sciatica: A Pittsburgh Chiropractor Approach

Sciatica or Sciatic neuralgia is mostly caused by an irritation or pinching of the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve originates in your lower back and exits the lower portion of your spine from between the lumbar vertebrae. There are several potential causes for this irritation such as 1) a loss of normal motion in your lumbar vertebra, 2) a degeneration of the disc separating the lumbar vertebra, 3) a subluxation of one of the vertebrae or 4) a protrusion or herniation of the disc. Any one of these conditions can cause a pinching or irritation of the sciatic nerve.

The sciatic nerve is the longest and largest nerve in the body. The sciatic nerve is at its thickest point as it passes through the upper gluteal region. When the nerve becomes inflamed it creates the condition which we call sciatica. Not all leg pain should be classified as sciatica, but virtually all sciatica involves leg pain. The pain can normally be felt in the back of the thigh, calf, ankle and top or bottom of the foot, sciatica often causes sensations of burning, cramping, tingling, numbness and depending on the level of acuteness, degrees of pain ranging from an aching nuisance to throbbing to extreme pain. In the most severe cases, there may be diminished or absent reflexes. Irritation of the nerve can also cause wasting or atrophy of muscles.

There are various causes of sciatica. It can result from a sudden trauma, a strenuous attempt to lift, pull or push something, a false or sudden rotational motion, or even the jolt of a violent sneeze or cough. Most times, however, sciatica is the result of cumulative or repetitive small traumas. Sciatica may appear suddenly or gradually and may first be noticed while walking or slouching in a chair. It is often the result of some trauma that occurred months or even years before. Generally, I have noticed, the sciatic sufferer has had a history of minor or nagging low back pain which they have chosen to ignore. Many time the pain is more severe in the morning and diminishes as the day goes by thus causing you to believe that this is a normal part of waking up.

The GOOD NEWS is Sciatica responds well to Chiropractic Care. Duration and type of treatment will vary depending on the cause and severity of the condition. Being aware of your bodies warning signs and initiating early treatment can diminish the severity of the sciatica. Just like your car flashing your check engine light your body gives us signals that something is not right. You should not ignore these signals or try to mask the pain with analgesics. See your Chiropractor immediately to assess the root cause of your problem and offer an effective treatment plan. Your car requires maintenance and upkeep and so does your body. If you expect to live a long and healthy life you need to start taking an active role in your health. Chiropractic care is a wise investment in your long term health plan.

About The Author Dr. Goldberg has been a Chiropractor in Pittsburgh since 1984. Dr. Goldberg and his team take a complete health approach in promoting optimal joint health. Dr. Goldberg has integrated the services of chiropractic, massage, acupuncture and nutrition all under one roof. This combination allows each patient the opportunity to use the service(s) that best suit their needs. Chiropractic Care could be exactly what you are looking for. Let your local Pittsburgh Chiropractor show you first hand the power and benefits of licensed Pittsburgh Chiropractor. To learn more contact our office at 888-367-5090