Lower back pain comes in several forms, but some of the most uncomfortable issues can stem from the sciatic nerve. This is known as sciatica. It causes symptoms beyond lumbar pain and can also become a chronic problem. If you believe you have sciatic nerve pain, use this guide to learn more about this common condition and how it can be treated. 

A Guide to Sciatica 

What causes sciatic nerve pain? 

The sciatic nerve is your body’s longest, largest nerve. Its roots are located in the lower back, with the nerves extending down the buttocks and backs of both legs. It is responsible for helping the leg and foot muscles move and allows people to feel sensations in their lower extremities. 

When the sciatic nerve experiences damage or compression from a sports, automobile, or another type of injury, it becomes inflamed and painful. Pregnancy can also cause sciatic nerve compression.

What are the symptoms? 

Symptoms of sciatica include radiating pain in the buttocks, legs, and feet, which has been likened to stabbing, searing, and shooting sensations. Other symptoms include low back stiffness and pain, leg and foot tingling and numbness, and leg muscle weakness. Affected individuals can also experience limited hip flexor mobility.

Are there risk factors? 

People who sit or stand for lengthy periods at work have an increased risk of sciatic nerve compression. Individuals who are overweight are also likely to experience the condition. 

Strenuous jobs that require a person to lift heavy objects or twist the body, such as manual laborers and professional dancers, are also at risk due to the stress these movements put on the sciatic nerve. Individuals who smoke tobacco also heighten their chances of sciatic nerve pain because smoking causes inflammation throughout the body. 

How is sciatica treated? 

An official diagnosis is typically made by administering X-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI to view the affected nerve. Afterward, your doctor builds you a customized treatment plan. Chiropractic care services often help sciatica, as the practitioner uses one or several techniques to relieve nerve pressure and pain. Treatment can include routine chiropractic adjustments that gently manipulate misaligned joints and bones and return them to their proper positions, which reduces pressure on the sciatic nerve. Spinal decompression can also relieve pressure and encourage healing in inflamed tissue. 

Lifestyle changes also help. Your doctor may urge you to focus on maintaining a healthy weight. Exercising and stretching regularly and saying no to tobacco can lead to increased relief.

If you need sciatica relief, reach out to the chiropractors at Farrell Chiropractic Clinic in Princeton, IL. Since 1954, this center has provided residents throughout Bureau County and the surrounding areas with a full suite of chiropractic services. Whether you need carpal tunnel or back pain treatment, their compassionate and trained staff can help you find relief. Call (815) 875-4408 to make an appointment, or learn more about their services online.