Sciatica is a common condition that occurs when the sciatic nerve is irritated, inflamed, or injured. The sciatic nerve is a bundle of nerve roots extending from the base of the spine, through the pelvis, and down each leg. This is the largest and thickest nerve in the body, comprised of five nerve roots in the lumbar spine and sacrum. These nerve roots contain two sciatic nerves that extend on both sides of the body. Individuals can experience shooting pain in the legs and other debilitating symptoms if the sciatic nerve becomes compressed or pinched. Chiropractic care is an excellent, holistic treatment modality that can help alleviate pain caused by sciatica. Dr. Jacob Klein of the Klein Clinic has vast experience treating sciatica and other conditions of the musculoskeletal system.
Symptoms of Sciatica
Individuals with sciatica can experience intermittent, mild symptoms or chronic, long-lasting symptoms such as muscle weakness, numbness, burning sensations, “pins and needles,” or a shooting, sharp pain like an electric shock down the back of the legs. Depending on the severity of the condition, sciatica can affect the lower back, buttocks, hips, and toes. These symptoms can worsen with inactivity or flare up with sudden, forcible movement, such as a cough or sneeze.
As we age, our spines naturally degenerate and narrow as the space between the spinal discs grows smaller. This can place greater pressure on the nerves and create compression and inflammation in the spinal cord. Progressive degeneration of the spine can lead to more acute symptoms of sciatica, and sciatica can worsen without proper care and treatment.
How Can Chiropractic Care Help Sciatica
Chiropractic care for sciatica can include different treatments depending on the patient. Spinal adjustments (also known as chiropractic manipulation) involve manual adjustments of the spine to help realign the spine into a natural, healthy state and relieve pressure on the surrounding nerves. Dr. Klein expertly performs a variety of spinal adjustment techniques, such as Active Release Therapy (ART), to help relieve muscular tension and Diversified Adjustments to help the spine into proper alignment. Spinal decompression therapy is a process that gently stretches the spine to help create space between the vertebrae. This allows oxygen and nutrients to flow into the areas of the spine, helping to facilitate the body’s natural healing properties.
Electrical Muscle Stimulation utilizes electrical impulses to stimulate the contraction and release of targeted muscle groups, which can improve muscular relaxation and help alleviate pain. Dr. Klein may also recommend a personalized therapeutic exercise program to help improve flexibility, strength, and range of motion. The Klein Clinic provides expert chiropractic care in New York City and can help patients journey to healing and whole-body wellness. Call (917) 661-8014 today.