Natural Sciatica Treatment: A Columbia, MO Chiropractor’s Perspective
The sciatic nerve is the longest and widest nerve in the body, originating from the lower back and extending down the back of both legs. Comprised of multiple nerve roots, the sciatic nerve plays a vital role in transmitting signals between the spinal cord and the legs. When this nerve is compressed or irritated, this is known as sciatica. Sciatica pain radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, and the discomfort can vary from a mild ache to sharp, shooting pains, sometimes accompanied by sensations of numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected leg.
Several factors contribute to the development of sciatica, including degeneration, herniated discs, and sedentary lifestyle/desk jobs. Trauma or injury to the spine can increase the risk of sciatica. The prevalence of sciatica is relatively high due to our modern sedentary lifestyle, which often leads to poor posture, weakened core muscles, and increased pressure on the spine.
New Patient Special
Claim our new patient special where the first visit fees ($49) are covered by our clinic and donated to local charities. Your first visit includes x-rays (if medically necessary), a neurological exam, and a complete consultation.
Swift intervention is crucial when it comes to treating sciatica. Ignoring or neglecting symptoms may lead to chronic pain, nerve damage, and a diminished quality of life. Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive method of treating sciatica symptoms without medications or surgery. Chiropractors focus on restoring proper spinal alignment through adjustments, reducing pressure on the sciatic nerve. Your chiropractor may also include therapeutic exercises, stretches, and lifestyle recommendations to address the root causes of sciatica and promote overall spinal health. Many individuals find chiropractic care appealing for its natural and holistic methods, aiming not only to alleviate symptoms but also to enhance the body’s innate healing capabilities.
How Our Sciatica Care Plan Works
1. Assessment
We begin with a thorough examination of the patient’s spine alignment, hip, and posture. Evaluate range of motion, pain points, and potential contributing factors.
2. Manual Techniques
Utilize gentle manipulations to target affected structures, including fascia, joints, and muscles. Employ mobilization and soft tissue techniques to alleviate tension and improve circulation.
3. Exercise Plan
Design a tailored regimen focusing on stretching and strengthening the hip and leg muscles, and surrounding fascia. Emphasize gradual progression, providing exercises that enhance flexibility, stability, and overall function.
How We Treat Sciatica in Columbia, MO
Chiropractic
Chiropractors employ a variety of techniques to effectively treat sciatica, focusing on addressing the underlying causes of sciatica symptoms. One of the primary methods chiropractors use is spinal adjustments to restore proper alignment of the spine, particularly in the lumbar region where the sciatic nerve may be compressed or irritated. By realigning the spine, chiropractors help alleviate pressure on the sciatic nerve, reducing pain and restoring normal nerve function.
In addition to spinal adjustments, chiropractors may use other modalities to complement treatment. Soft tissue therapy, such as massage or myofascial release, can help relax tight muscles and reduce inflammation around the sciatic nerve. We prescribe therapeutic exercises and stretches to strengthen the core muscles, improve flexibility, and support the spine. Lifestyle recommendations, including ergonomic adjustments and guidance on posture, are commonly integrated into the chiropractic approach to prevent the recurrence of sciatic pain.
Chiropractors take a holistic approach to sciatica treatment, considering the overall health and well-being of the individual. The goal is to alleviate immediate symptoms, address the root causes of sciatica, and promote long-term spinal health. Through a combination of hands-on therapies, rehabilitative exercises, and lifestyle modifications, chiropractors empower individuals to manage their sciatica and improve their overall quality of life.
Identifying and addressing the root cause of sciatica is crucial for several important reasons. While medications and other symptomatic treatments may provide temporary relief, they often do not address the fundamental issue contributing to sciatica. By getting to the root cause, chiropractors can develop targeted and effective treatment plans that aim to resolve the source of the problem, leading to sustained improvement. Underlying causes of sciatica left untreated can lead to the progression of the condition and potentially result in chronic pain or permanent nerve damage. Early intervention is preferred as it minimizes the risk of developing secondary problems associated with chronic pain.
Specific Chiropractic Care in Columbia, MO
Subluxation
From a chiropractic viewpoint, subluxation is when a joint does not work properly due to restriction either in the joint itself or in the soft tissues around it. A subluxation in the lumbar spine can lead to a range of issues, such as compression or irritation of the nerves in the lower back, potentially resulting in pain, discomfort, and decreased range of motion. This will also affect the spine’s supporting muscles, leading to stiffness or weakness. Over time, untreated subluxations may contribute to chronic issues, impacting posture, mobility, and overall spinal health.
Chiropractic Adjustment for Sciatica
Chiropractic adjustments can offer significant relief to patients by addressing the root cause of their sciatica symptoms. Sciatica often results from compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, and chiropractors will use a series of precise adjustments to realign the vertebrae in the lumbar spine, reducing pressure on the sciatic nerve and promoting proper nerve function. These adjustments alleviate pain and contribute to improved mobility, reducing inflammation in the surrounding soft tissues.
Natural Sciatica Relief
Chiropractors use a non-invasive, holistic approach to treating sciatica. Unlike conventional treatments that rely on medications for symptoms or surgery for severe cases, chiropractic emphasizes the natural healing process your body instinctively has. This approach not only provides relief from immediate symptoms but also promotes overall wellness by considering the interconnectedness of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. Additionally, chiropractic care often involves patient education and empowerment, encouraging individuals to actively participate in their recovery through exercises, stretches, and lifestyle modifications.
This emphasis on preventive measures aligns with the idea of maintaining optimal spinal health to prevent future issues. While both approaches have their merits, many patients appreciate chiropractic care for its patient-centered, whole-body approach, often finding it less invasive, more personalized, and conducive to long-term well-being.
Read Our Online Reviews
Kathy Lee2024-01-13I fell on the ice. They got me in right away and also scheduled me for a follow up the next day. Now, I hit that ground hard when I fell, but I am still amazed at the speed and quality of my recovery after their careful care, evaluation and guidance.Leslie Garcia2024-01-10Love getting adjusted and Dr Squires is amazing! All the doctors are great. I highly recommend coming here.Jan Ritter2024-01-09Love this place. They keep me healthy and pain-free.Connie Coil2024-01-05I have been going to Family First Chiropractic for approximately 12 years. They have helped me through numerous issues and I will continue to use them for my chiropractic care.Julie Borders2024-01-04Kind people. Very accommodating with scheduling changes.Maria Trevor2024-01-03I have been seeing Dr.Kelli for 11 years. Great help in alleviating pain and setting my back and neck straight. I see her monthly as part of my wellness routine, but I started with her due to back pain in late pregnancy. She has been absolutely wonderful over all these years!Autumn Eads2023-12-14My first appointment as a patient was amazing! Doctors are very thorough and strive to make everyone as comfortable and informed as possible. I’ve enjoyed my time working with these people.
Common Causes of Sciatica in Columbia, MO
Herniated Lumbar Discs
The intervertebral disc consists of a tough outer layer called the annulus fibrosus and a gel-like inner core called the nucleus pulposus. These discs are cushions between the vertebrae, providing flexibility and absorbing shock during movements. A disc bulge occurs when the disc’s outer layer weakens or degenerates, causing the disc to extend beyond its normal boundaries, leading to pain, stiffness, and, in some cases, compression of nearby nerves. A herniated disc differs from a disc bulge because it involves a more significant rupture of the annulus fibrosus, allowing the nucleus pulposus to protrude into the spinal canal. While disc bulges and herniations can cause discomfort, a herniated disc typically involves a more severe displacement of the disc material.
Degenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) is a condition that describes the wear and tear on the intervertebral discs of the spine over time. As individuals age, the discs in the spine change, including a reduction in fluid content and elasticity, leading to a decrease in disc height. This process can result in structural changes, such as the formation of bone spurs and the development of tiny cracks in the outer layer of the discs. While DDD can be a common part of aging, not everyone experiences significant symptoms, and the severity of the condition can vary from person to person.
The effects of DDD primarily impact the intervertebral discs, which serve as cushions between the vertebrae. As the discs degenerate, they may lose their ability to absorb shock and provide adequate support to the spine. The risk factors for developing DDD include genetics, smoking, obesity, and occupations that involve repetitive stress or heavy lifting. While DDD itself is not always a source of pain, it can contribute to the development of other conditions that may cause more pronounced symptoms. Chiropractors play a valuable role in caring for individuals with DDD by maintaining optimal spinal alignment, improving joint mobility, and providing exercises to strengthen the supporting muscles. Chiropractic adjustments can help manage symptoms associated with DDD, promoting overall spinal health and potentially slowing down the progression of degenerative changes in the spine.
Spinal Stenosis
The narrowing of the spinal canal, the open space within the vertebrae that houses the spinal cord and nerve roots, is called spinal stenosis. The spinal cord and nerve roots extend within the spinal canal, allowing communication between the brain and the rest of the body. In spinal stenosis, the space within the spinal canal becomes restricted, often due to the growth of bone spurs, thickening of ligaments, or other degenerative changes. These structural changes can lead to compression of the spinal cord and nerve roots, resulting in pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected area, typically the lower back, legs, or neck. Individuals with spinal stenosis may have trouble walking or maintaining balance, and the symptoms may worsen with certain activities, such as standing or walking for extended periods.
Muscle Strain or Spasm
A muscle strain refers to the over-stretching or tearing of muscle fibers, commonly occurring due to sudden excessive force, overuse, or improper lifting techniques. Injured muscles can become swollen and inflamed, causing pain and spasms. Muscle strains in the lower back or the hips can compress the sciatic nerve, causing sciatica. Using ice intermittently within 72 hours of the injury will help to manage inflammation and pain while the muscle fibers repair. Muscle strains can take weeks or months to fully heal, depending on the severity. Therefore, if symptoms persist or worsen, seeking chiropractic care is crucial to determine the accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction (SI Joint Pain)
The sacrum (the triangular bone at the base of the spine) and the ilium (the large pelvic bone) meet on each side of the lower back, forming the sacroiliac joint, or SI joint. This joint is vital in transmitting forces between the upper body and the legs, providing stability and support. The SI joint is surrounded by ligaments for stability, but it allows a small degree of movement for walking and bearing weight. Despite its limited mobility, the SI joint is susceptible to dysfunction, which can manifest as pain and discomfort in the lower back and buttocks.
Sacroiliac joint dysfunction can contribute to sciatica when irritation or inflammation in the joint puts pressure on nearby nerves, including the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve, originating in the lower back, runs down each leg, and compression of this nerve can lead to radiating pain, tingling, or numbness. SI joint dysfunction is a dull, aching pain on one side of the lower back that may radiate into the hip, buttock, or down the leg.
Check Out Our Location Near You
550 East Green Meadows Rd, Ste 101, Columbia, MO 65201
Frequently Asked Questions About Sciatica
What can I do to relieve my sciatica pain?
To relieve sciatica pain, consider gentle stretches, such as those targeting the piriformis muscle, and incorporate low-impact exercises like yoga or walking. Additionally, applying cold packs and taking hot Epsom salt baths may provide temporary relief, but consulting with a chiropractor for a tailored treatment plan is recommended for long-term management.
How should I lay with sciatica?
When dealing with sciatica, we recommend laying on your back with a pillow under your knees, which helps maintain the spine’s natural curve and reduces pressure on the sciatic nerve. Experiment with different sleeping positions and pillow placements to find the most comfortable arrangement to alleviate sciatic pain.
Can stretching make sciatica worse?
While gentle stretching can often help alleviate sciatica symptoms, aggressive or improper stretching may exacerbate the condition. It’s crucial to perform stretches under guidance from a healthcare professional or a qualified trainer to ensure they are appropriate for your specific situation and do not worsen sciatic nerve irritation.
Should I go to the gym with sciatica?
Engaging in low-impact exercises at the gym, such as walking on a treadmill or stationary biking, can be beneficial for sciatica relief. Still, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any exercise routine to ensure it aligns with your specific condition and doesn’t aggravate symptoms. Avoid high-impact activities or heavy lifting until you’ve received guidance on suitable exercises for sciatica.
What exercises help with sciatica pain?
Gentle exercises like walking, yoga, and specific stretches targeting the lower back and piriformis muscle can often help alleviate sciatica pain by promoting flexibility and reducing nerve compression.
Content Written by Dr. Kelli Winarski | DC, Pediatrics and Pregnancy Certified, ART (Active Release Techniques) Full Body Certified, NBCE, National Board of Chiropractic Examiners Part I-IV & Physical Therapy
Content Reviewed by Dr. Collin Zeugin | DC, NBCE, National Board of Chiropractic Examiners Part I-IV & Physical Therapy
Have Questions About Working with Our Chiropractors?
Please, don’t let your questions go unanswered. If anything is unclear, please ask! Contact us today!
New Patient Special
Claim our new patient special where the first visit fees ($49) are covered by our clinic and donated to local charities. Your first visit includes x-rays (if medically necessary), a neurological exam, and a complete consultation.
