What is sciatica?
Sciatica is a medical term that refers to pain affecting your sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in your body. The sciatic nerve begins in your lower back, runs over your buttocks, down your legs, and into your feet.
If you have a herniated disc, a bone spur, or you’ve been diagnosed with spinal stenosis –– a gradual narrowing of the spinal column –– you’re also at risk of sciatica. Pain caused by sciatica can negatively affect your mobility, but it usually subsides on its own using conservative, noninvasive measures of care.
What are the symptoms of sciatica?
The symptoms of sciatica vary from person to person, but common telltale signs include:
- Lower back pain
- Hip pain
- Buttocks pain
- Leg weakness
- Leg numbness
- Tingling
- Trouble balancing
If you have sciatica, you might also experience a sharp, shooting pain that makes it difficult to stand up or move around.
Who is at risk of sciatica?
Sciatica affects people of all races and genders, but there are certain factors that may increase your risk, including:
- Being middle-aged or older
- Being overweight
- Living a sedentary lifestyle
- Having diabetes
Your job can also play a role. If you regularly have to twist your back, carry heavy loads, or drive a commercial vehicle, you’re also more likely to experience sciatica.
How is sciatica diagnosed?
To diagnose sciatica, the team at Houston Spine & Rehabilitation Centers conducts a physical exam and asks you about your symptoms. They also check your muscle strength and reflexes and ask you to walk on your toes and heels. If you experience pain during these activities, you probably have sciatica.
If you’re suffering from severe pain, your doctor might also recommend X-rays or an MRI to get a closer look at your vertebrae and the soft tissues in your back. These measures can pinpoint herniated discs and other related problems.
How is sciatica treated?
Whenever possible, the team at Houston Spine & Rehabilitation Centers treats sciatica using safe, noninvasive means. Depending on your symptoms and their severity, they might recommend:
- Medication
- Chiropractic manipulation
- Massage
- Physical therapy
These treatments encourage circulation throughout your body, easing pain and relieving inflammation. Once you’re feeling better, the team recommends chiropractic treatment at least once a month. Regular chiropractic care can slow down the degeneration of the joints in your spine by restoring normal joint movement.
If you’re suffering from sciatica-induced pain, request an appointment at Houston Spine & Rehabilitation Centers today by calling the office nearest you or booking online.
