Symptoms and Treatment of Sciatica

Symptoms

Sciatica is a symptom of a medical condition and occurs when there is an injury to the sciatic nerve.  The sciatic nerve is located in the spine and runs down the back of the legs.  It controls movement in the knees and lower leg and also provides feeling to the soles of the feet and lower legs.  Someone with sciatica will have pain, weakness or tingling/burning sensations in their leg.  In severe cases, sciatica is so painful that the individual may not be able to move.  Typically, pain and numbness will occur on one side and the sensations may be felt on the bottom of the foot or calf.  Pain tends to get worse after standing, sitting or walking a few yards.  Common causes of sciatica include: slipped disc, spinal stenosis, pelvic injury or tumors. 

Treatment

Chiropractic care is a treatment option for those suffering from severe sciatic pain.  The physician may use ice or cold therapy to numb pain and reduce irritation and swelling.  This technique works best right after the client experiences severe tenderness.  Occasionally massage therapy is used in combination with other therapies.  Once the patient has felt relief, the chiropractor may suggest an exercise program to get the client active again.  If pain doesn’t decrease within several treatments, the chiropractor will further examine the condition with X-rays, CT scan or and MRI.  These tools will help identify the problem so the chiropractor can use proper treatment.