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The spine is made up of a series of interconnected bones called vertebrae. The vertebrae are stacked on top of each other and separated by discs that act as shock absorbers. If the space between two vertebrae becomes too narrow to allow the spinal cord to pass through easily, it will cause pain or numbness in one or both legs (sciatica).
DeBole Chiropractic has experience in treating sciatica. Dr. Mike DeBole is a highly trained chiropractor to perform proper chiropractic adjustments and other non-invasive and effective procedures. If you are suffering from sciatica, consult with DeBole Chiropractic.
Understanding Sciatica
Sciatica is a serious condition that can result from spinal nerve damage. The pain and tingling usually affect the legs but may also affect other parts of the body. Sciatica often worsens with bending or twisting movements and when coughing. Sciatic is a chronic disease usually managed by taking Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to control the inflammation caused by sciatic nerves. NSAIDs and analgesics are the most common pharmacological relief for the symptoms of sciatica, such as numbness, paresthesia, and muscle weakness.
While medications work to alleviate the symptoms, they are usually for short-term relief. Thus, patients tend to be drug-dependent to prevent feeling pain and numbness in some parts of their body. Meanwhile, chiropractic care focuses on treating the underlying cause of sciatica for long-term relief. It simultaneously increases blood and nutrient circulation to the damaged tissues for the quick promotion of the healing processes.
The most frequent etiology of sciatica is a herniated lumbar intervertebral disc. In the elderly population, spinal stenosis may lead to these symptoms as well. Spondylolisthesis or misalignment between vertebrae can result in similar pain and discomfort. Sometimes for even more severe symptomatology than that caused by other sources such as overuse injury from activities like running.
A physical exam and a medical history are used to diagnose sciatica. Dr. Mike Debole uses the symptoms and examination to diagnose sciatica clinically. X-rays and other tests, as long as medically necessary, can be performed to further define your diagnosis.
Chiropractic Interventions to Treat Sciatica
Spinal Adjustments
By using a high-velocity, short lever arm thrust to the abnormal vertebrae, therapists can improve functionality and relieve nerve irritability. A chiropractic adjustment is commonly known as chiropractic. There has been firm literature support for chiropractic treatment of lower back pain. Many published guidelines recommend chiropractor manipulation be included in care plans early on when treating low back pain.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture functions by relaxing tight muscles and improving blood circulation. It also manages the nervous system by releasing neurotransmitters to reduce pain. Acupuncture is an effective treatment for sciatica without the side effects of prescription pain medications like NSAIDs and muscle relaxers. It is also a safe, non-surgical treatment option that can relieve severe back pains caused by nerve compression.
Acupuncture has been shown to provide significant relief for those with sciatica. When combined with traditional medications, such as NSAIDs or antispasmodic drugs, it can lessen the pain and promote a faster healing process by minimizing the dosages of medication needed.
Cognitive Behavior Therapy
Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a technique used to help you stay well or cope with a health problem by changing the way that you think. The input of this kind of thinking also involves calming your mind and body. It can be done through meditation, yoga postures, muscle relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises, and guided imagery.
CBT can be helpful for chronic pain by changing the way you think about how to manage it. It also teaches you how to become more active. Research proved that appropriate physical activity, such as walking and swimming, is effective in treating pain the same way medications and surgeries do.
Massage Therapy
Massages are a great way to relieve stress and tension, whether it is from your muscles or other parts of the body. Depending on what type of massage you receive, a professional may work deep below the skin using different methods such as trigger-point therapy or neuromuscular therapy.
One of the best ways to relieve sciatica pain is by performing a massage in your gluteus medius and minimus muscles, which are located on the side of your body. These two overlapping muscles provide relief for many people who think they have sciatica but suffer from these muscle pains. Whether you’re dealing with real or false backaches, this kind of massage will feel great.