Help for the Sting of Sciatica

Did you know that the sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the body? It begins in the lower back and extends through the buttocks and down the entire leg. Sciatica is caused by inflammation or compression of the sciatic nerve. It is characterized by mild to severe pain, burning, tingling, numbness and/or weakness.

A doctor of chiropractic knows a great deal about sciatica, particularly because the nerve originates in the lower back. In fact, sciatica is a common reason for visiting a chiropractor. If you're suffering from sciatica, a chiropractor will perform chiropractic adjustments and related techniques to help resolve your pain.

Once the pain is gone, some low-level exercises like walking and biking may be suggested. Why? According to recent research, regular walking and/or biking reduces the risk of being hospitalized for sciatica by 33 percent, the same percentage risk increase attributable to obesity. While it isn't common for sciatica to lead to a hospital stay, it can persist if not treated properly and can cause significant pain/disability.

Research did not find an association with other types of leisure-time physical activities, leading the researchers to speculate that walking/biking are specifically beneficial because they are low-level physical activities that don't strain the low back.

If you or someone you know is suffering from sciatica, contact Patrick Chiropractic in Raleigh (919-790-2288) to schedule a consultation. Dr. Dale Patrick will meet with you to discuss your symptoms and determine whether chiropractic treatment can help alleviate your pain.