Sciatica Treatments

Sciatica is a common problem, affecting about 40% of people. It can have an impact on your daily activities, so proper treatment is important. At Four Points Family Chiropractic in Austin, we offer natural and effective sciatica treatment.

Causes of Sciatica

Before we discuss sciatica treatments, let's take a quick look at the causes. Sciatica is caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, also known as pinched nerves. The sciatic nerve begins in the lower back and travels through the buttocks and each leg. Spinal misalignment or herniated discs can cause irritation of the sciatic nerve. Muscle tension in your back or legs can also trigger sciatica.

Symptoms of Sciatica

Lower back pain is a common symptom of sciatica. You may also experience pain in your legs, hips, buttocks, or feet. Tingling and numbness are also common. Additionally, you may have weakness in your legs or feet, which can make it difficult to walk or stand. The pain may be localized on one side, but it can also migrate to different areas. For example, you may have pain in your legs and then pain in your back.

Chiropractic Adjustment

Since sciatica is often caused by spinal misalignment, chiropractic adjustment is the main treatment for sciatica. Your chiropractor will use gentle thrusts and pressure to correct misalignments. Proper alignment relieves back and sciatica pain, improves nervous system function, increases blood flow, and enhances flexibility. Adjustments can also help with herniated discs, allowing the disc to retract back into place.

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy can also be beneficial for sciatica. It offers several benefits. It's a great way to relieve muscle tension and reduce stress. It also increases blood flow, reduces inflammation, and speeds up the healing process. Massage therapy provides quick relief for lower back pain. Additionally, it helps your body maintain proper alignment after a chiropractic adjustment.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture involves the use of tiny needles that are inserted into the skin. In ancient Chinese medicine, acupuncture is believed to remove energy blockages, which can relieve a variety of health issues, including sciatica. Acupuncture can relieve sciatica pain in a few ways. It calms the nervous system and reduces nerve pain. Some studies have shown that acupuncture is more effective than prescription NSAIDs. Other benefits of acupuncture include relieving muscle tension, increasing circulation, and releasing endorphins, which are the body's natural pain relievers.

Nutritional and Lifestyle Advice

Your chiropractor may also recommend nutritional and lifestyle changes. Exercise is an important part of sciatica treatment. However, certain types of movement can trigger sciatica pain. Nutritional advice may include supplements to help relieve sciatica and dietary changes.

Sciatica Treatment at Four Points Family Chiropractic

If you need sciatica treatment, contact Four Points Family Chiropractic at (512) 345-9355 (WELL). We offer sciatica treatment, including chiropractic adjustment, acupuncture, massage, and nutritional advice to relieve your sciatica pain.