Sciatica is a type of debilitating lower back pain that radiates to the hips and to the outer side of the leg. It usually affects the older population of the United States. Strong pain relievers can manage severe discomfort from sciatica. Yet, most patients prefer natural solutions such as chiropractic care.
According to the American Chiropractic Association, chiropractic care can treat sciatica without adverse reactions or expensive medications. If you want to take the natural route in dealing with your sciatic pain, here’s what you need to know about chiropractic care for sciatica.
Correct Diagnosis
During the consultation, your chiropractor will take your medical history and subject you to a physical exam. Expect questions about your lifestyle and exercise routine. The information your chiropractor collects will help determine the root cause of your pain.
Cold And Heat Therapies
Your chiropractor can use cold and heat therapies to relieve your sciatic pain. Cold therapy reduces pain and relieves inflammation. Heat therapy relaxes your muscles and increases blood flow to encourage tissue healing. Your chiropractor will recommend the right treatment for you and how often to alternate these two therapies.
Chiropractic Modalities
Chiropractors also utilize certain tools to target your sciatic pain:
Ultrasound. This uses sound waves to penetrate your affected tissues. It also reduces cramping, pain, swelling, and muscle spasms.
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). TENS is a portable nerve stimulator. It increases endorphin production, eases muscle spasms, and decreases pain.
Cold laser therapy. This is low-intensity laser treatment. It encourages tissue healing by decreasing musculoskeletal pain, edema, and irritation
Massage Therapy
Chiropractic massage therapy can trigger muscle relaxation. It can also relieve your pain by stimulating the release of endorphins. Experts say that chiropractic massage can also soothe and heal sciatica.
Spinal Decompression
Your chiropractic specialist can stop the compression in your spine through spinal decompression. This technique enhances the space between your vertebrae. It then lengthens and relaxes your spine.
Chiropractic Adjustments
Spinal adjustments can realign your vertebral discs. It can loosen the movement of your spine as well. Your chiropractor can rest your herniated disk back into its normal position. With regular chiropractic sessions, you can regain your mobility and normal nerve transmission. They can also relieve your muscle spasms.
Exercises And Lifestyle Changes
Certain exercises can release the pressure from your tightened muscles. As they do so, they prevent the worsening of your sciatica. Your specialist can also advise you to change the way you sleep, stand, lift, and sit. Back exercises can strengthen your back muscles. A strong back can prevent your vertebral discs from slipping. It can also prevent the discs from pressing onto your sciatic nerve.
If you suffer from sciatica, there is no need for you to tolerate it and keep using strong pain relievers. At Charleston Chiropractic Associates, we can help improve your quality of life through our established chiropractic techniques. Please visit our clinic in Charleston, South Carolina, for a one-on-one consultation. You can also call us at 843-225-4357 if you want to schedule an appointment. We can also answer your inquiries about our chiropractic care strategies for sciatica.
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