Sciatica

Sciatica ( Pain from the lower back down the back of legs to the toes) is frequently the result of spinal conditions that lead to irritation of the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body, that runs from the lower back through the buttocks and down the back of the legs to the toes. Compression or irritation of the sciatica nerve can cause low-back pain with radiating pain in the back of the legs. Which in certain cases may result in a condition known as Neuropathy

There are basically two forms of Sciatica;
1. Functional.
2 Pathological.

Sciatica is often a result of disc herniation. Spinal discs are soft cushions between the vertebra of the spine. Disc herniation is the process in which an injury or spinal degeneration causes the disc to move outside of its normal boundary. This bulging disc pinches the sciatica nerve triggering pain.
Although disc herniation is a common source sciatic pain, several other mechanisms can cause pain. In a recent study, researchers used new, state-of-the-art imaging techniques to illustrate sources of sciatic pain other than disc herniation.

Some causes of sciatica:
Pathological: Various tumors and cysts can compress nerves in the lumbar spine region, causing pain.
Injury:  Fractures of the pelvis or sacroiliac joint can lead to lesions that place pressure on the nerves in the lumbar spinal plexus, or the group of nerves in the lumbar spine /low-back region. A hamstring injury can also lead to inflammation of the tendons and compress the adjacent sciatica nerve. Slip and fall, auto injuries, work related injuries, sports injuries

Disc Degeneration/Spinal Stenosis: As we age, our discs decrease in height and lose their elasticity. bulges, protrusions/extrusions, herniations that may lead to different types of spinal stenosis that compress the Sciatic nerve.

Treatment: A full examination and history. X-rays and or MRI of the Lumbar spine may be necessary. I recommend specific chiropracitc treamtents and also the use of Spinal Decompression to relieve the Sciatic nerve along with other forms of therapy in our office. Call us today at 508-481-1133!