Sciatica is debilitating lower back pain that shoots down the hip and legs. Many people are recommended to rest to get some relief from the pain, however what we know is that sitting around is probably making your symptoms worse! So, when painkillers and hot packs can’t cut the pain, consider visiting a chiropractor.

A chiropractor? For sciatica?

Chiropractors are a portal of entry, meaning you don’t need a referral to see one. We’re trained to work with neuromusculoskeletal concerns, so we can help identify what’s the root cause of your symptoms.

Chiropractic care is covered under most extended health coverage plans. And a visit to the chiropractor may save you a step. Chiropractors can quickly identify whether your concern needs to be elevated to the next level and if you need to pursue:

Motion is lotion when it comes to chiropractic therapy

Muscles are made up of thousands of small fibers, like a rope created from several small strands of string. With both overuse and underuse, the muscle fibers contract and also influence nearby fibers to contract. Once this process begins, a painful “knot” of muscles, known as a trigger point, forms.

If you develop trigger points around the sciatic nerve, they can irritate the area which could cause intense, radiating pain down the back and legs. If the issue is muscular, there are many safe, and effective ways to treat the area so that symptoms can dissipate quickly. The goal of any soft tissue techniques in the area are to help your body move more freely!

Big benefits, little risk to hands-on manual therapy

In addition to saving you time, a visit to the chiropractor may also decrease your reliance on painkillers. A study by the American College of Physicians listed these as the first line of defense for lower back pain:

• Applying heat
• Manipulation
• Massage
• Acupuncture

Keep sciatic pain away with strengthening and stretching exercises

The goal of any treatment plan is to get you out of pain, and to keep that pain from coming back. With any chiropractic plan, every patient will get some hands on therapy, education, and a plan to move forward and start to feel better!