Sciatica Pain Treatment in Los Angeles, CA
The sciatic nerve is the major nerve of the legs and the largest in the body. It begins near the lower spine and branches through the buttocks, hips, pelvis, and down the back of both legs. It has a total of 5 nerve roots split into two groups. The sciatic nerve serves dual motor and sensory functions to help muscles move and detect sensations. The two main branches of the sciatic nerve are the tibial nerve and the common peroneal nerve.
Sciatica is the inflammation of the sciatic nerve that is typically caused by excessive pressure on the nerve. This condition can cause pain, numbness, weakness, and tingling anywhere along the pathway of the nerve. It is most often felt in the buttocks and the thigh. Sciatica is a fairly common problem that is estimated to affect as much as 40 percent of the population. Natural sciatica treatment typically involves chiropractic care intended to alleviate pressure on the nerve.
What Are the Common Causes Behind Sciatica?
Compression on the sciatic nerve can originate from different sources. There are many bones, muscles, and discs in the region. If any of these parts are overgrown or not in their proper place, then there is a high likelihood that they will place unwanted pressure on the nerve. Any injury that affects the lower back can greatly increase the risk of sciatica.
1. Sciatica caused by bones: Osteophytes, also known as bone spurs, can form on the edges of many bones. A bone spur by itself does not cause any symptoms, but it can scrape against nearby muscles, tissue, and nerves. Osteophytes that occur along vertebrae in the lower spine can place pressure on the sciatic nerve causing numbness or pain.
2. Sciatica caused by muscles: The piriformis muscle is a large, flat muscle that spans from the lower spine region to the upper thigh. It shares a lot of space with the sciatic nerve and any injury, swelling, or pressure on the piriformis muscle will also place pressure on the underlying nerve. This condition is referred to as piriformis syndrome and it can often be treated without medicinal or surgical intervention.
3. Sciatica caused by discs: The vast majority of sciatica cases are caused by a herniated disk in the lower back region. This occurs when the inner core of the disk is pushed outside of its protective layer. The proximity between these discs and the sciatic nerve makes it very likely that sciatica will occur. Not only does it cause excess pressure on the nerve, but a damaged disc can also leak chemicals that cause severe inflammation.
How is Sciatica Treated?
Treating sciatica requires understanding where the pressure is coming from. Since most cases of sciatica are caused by compression in the lower spine they can often be treated with non-surgical chiropractic methods.
Spinal decompression therapy is one of the most common chiropractic treatments used to treat sciatica. This non-surgical treatment relies on the use of a spinal decompression table and sensors that are constantly measuring pressure and resistance levels. The spine is gently stretched at multiple angles to create negative pressure. Ultimately, it can help reposition herniated discs that are causing pain in the sciatic nerve.
Typically a 30 minute disc decompression therapy to restore the disc hydration, flexibility and remove pressure form spinal nerves or the spinal cord. There is nothing else like it if you suffer from disc, nerve, or spinal cord impingement.
Pain Relief Is Here
The Link Between the Spine and the Feet
Posture, gait, and foot strength all affect the lower back in noticeable ways. A person who lives a primarily sedentary lifestyle has a much higher risk of developing lower back problems, including sciatica. Similarly, foot weakness and the way a person walks can also increase their risk for lower back problems. When the feet are out of alignment it can affect the entire body.
Gait and foot analysis are often employed to diagnose and treat sciatica. A foot analysis can identify common signs of overpronation and similar problems. It can identify visual warning signs like flat arches or outward foot flare. Gait analysis focuses on the mechanical stages required to walk. With these techniques, identifying and treating sciatica may be as simple as finding the right footwear or adjusting how you walk.
Sciatica Doesn’t Have To Be Permanent
Many people suffer from sciatica without ever seeking proper care. It’s a common misconception that lower back problems like sciatica requires surgery or prescription medications. In many cases, they are reversible with natural treatments like spinal decompression therapy. There’s no good reason to continue suffering if you are experiencing sciatica symptoms. Call us today at (855) 362-2857 to schedule an appointment.
F.A.Q.s
Here are the answers to a few of the most asked questions about our Chiropractic services. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions or wish to schedule an appointment.
What should I wear to my first visit?
Please wear loose fitting clothing. We always have shorts and gowns available if we need to examine extremities, etc.
How long will my first visit take?
We are very thorough and your first visit examination may take anywhere from 30-60 minutes. Follow up visits are typically 20-30 minutes long.
Do you treat Sport Injuries?
Absolutely. Dr. Kelberman spent 15 years at the Joint Rehabilitation and Sports Medical Center.
What type of orthotics can you make?
We have all materials and styles available. After examining your feet, we start by plaster casting your feet. We can fit just about all shoes including ski boots. We also have a patented strengthening system for our feet.
If you have a specific chiropractic treatment question, that is still left unanswered, please feel free to ask us using this button.
