Sciatica is a medical condition that impacts an estimated 40% of the population at some time during their life. However, this condition, which can be quite debilitating, tends to become more common as one ages.
Dr. Phillip Willner and a team of chiropractic professionals in Littleton, CO offer noninvasive treatments that can help relieve current sciatica symptoms and help prevent future sciatica pain flare-ups.
What is Sciatica?
Sciatica refers to a specific set of symptoms that is created when the largest nerve in the body, the sciatic nerve, becomes compressed or inflamed. The sciatic nerve in the lower back traverses through the buttocks into smaller nerve branches as it reaches down each leg.
Sciatica pain is often the result of muscle tension or some form of trauma, which may include a herniated disc or back injury, among others.
How can a Chiropractor Relieve Sciatica Pain?
Chiropractors are trained to offer multiple therapies to alleviate nerve pressure or inflammation that complement each other in the healing process. Dr. Willner may provide one or a combination of the following complimentary chiropractic services, depending on your specific symptoms and the cause of the sciatica event -
- Gentle full spine adjustments and/or manipulations.
- Electrical Stimulation.
- Cryotherapy.
- Myofascial Release.
- Therapeutic Ultrasound and more.
We can also oversee therapeutic exercise and progressive rehabilitation to help reduce inflammation and support the healing of the nerves, muscles, and surrounding tissue.
Self-Care Management Suggestions for Sciatica Pain
With approval from your chiropractor or general practitioner, you can choose to proactively prevent a sciatica flare-up by following these helpful suggestions:
- Be Vigilant with Getting Rest – although it may seem obvious, it is essential to highlight just how important rest is for supporting your body’s healing processes. Rest also helps to avoid further aggravation of your current condition.
- Apply Heat or Ice Intermittently – NOTE – do NOT apply heat or ice on the skin without protection (i.e., a towel or washcloth, etc.)
- Heat promotes healing and encourages blood flow.
- Ice reduces inflammation and helps to alleviate pain.
- Gentle stretching – even a twist or stretch while sitting can help maintain flexibility.
- Gentle exercising – although it seems a bit counterintuitive – especially when challenged by pain - studies suggest that gentle movement can reduce pain while strengthening your core muscles that support your spine and back.
Contact a Leading Littleton, CO Chiropractor for Sciatica Pain Relief.
If you are experiencing back and leg pain and think it may be sciatic-related, reach out to Dr. Willner – your Littleton Chiropractor, at 720-283-8006 or online. We look forward to helping you move pain-free.