Treatment for sciatica varies based on cause

Dear Dr. Miller:

What can you tell me about sciatica? What can be done to treat it?

Dear Reader:

Anyone who has ever experienced sciatica knows that it is very painful. The sciatic nerve begins near the pelvis, in the spinal column, and runs the length of each leg. It is the longest nerve in the body. When this nerve is compressed or irritated in any way, pain in varying degrees of severity can occur.

The pain of sciatica can start in either the lower back, or the buttock and might travel to one or both legs. This pain can range from being moderate to severe. Sometimes it is only experienced some of the time, but sometimes it is felt constantly.

Spine Universe describes this pain as “dull, achy, sharp, toothache-like, pins and needles, or similar to electric shocks.” They said other symptoms include “burning, numbness and tingling sensations.” Often the pain moves to the thigh or the buttocks where it remains.

Sciatica is not a disorder, but is rather a symptom of a disorder. Treatment may vary based on the cause of the symptoms.

There are a variety of causes for the symptoms of sciatica, but a common one is a misaligned lower spine. This will pinch the sciatic nerve. Sometimes simple actions, even as common as sitting, exercising, lifting or bending can cause the symptoms to occur. Chiro Community.Com states that some less common causes can include “arthritis, tumors, diabetes, vitamin deficiencies and any degeneration as a result of long-term stress on the lower back.”

The first step in treating sciatica is to diagnose the cause. This will involve investigating a patient’s medical history and a physical examination. This may include X-ray, MRI, CT scans or other tests. It is important to find the cause of the problem in order to determine an effective treatment.

Many people wait until their sciatica pain is severe before seeking help but this is not wise. Untreated sciatica can lead to many problems. It is best to get it diagnosed and treated as soon as possible.

In Chiropractic Sciatica Treatment, eHow.com a variety of treatments are listed. They describe spinal adjustment with the goal of reducing pressure on the sciatic nerve. They also mention electrical nerve stimulation where the chiropractor sends mild electrical current to the area through electrode patches. This helps the body to produce pain-relieving endorphins. Sometimes ice therapy is used in order to both numb the pain and reduce inflammation. Sometimes an exercise program is created for the patient.

If the pain does not subside it may be necessary for the patient to include medication or even epidural steroid injection in the treatment.

Remember that even though sciatica is painful, and that treatments may vary, it is important to seek professional help as soon as you experience the symptoms in order to prevent unnecessary suffering and permanent damage. Proper treatment of sciatica can reduce and/or eliminate your pain and you can start to enjoy your life again.

Send your questions and comments to Lake Superior Chiropractic, 2121 E. Fifth St, Superior, WI 54880, or e-mail Cmill005@yahoo.com

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