Dealing with Sciatica

Chiropractic Papillion NE Sciatica

Sciatica is a condition that affects the sciatic nerve that runs along the lower back down through each leg. It generally only affects one side of the body. There are several causes but one of the most common is a herniated disc or a bone spur on the spine. These conditions compress the nerve causing pain and numbness.

Some patients report that they have inflammation, as well. At Millard Family Chiropractic and Wellness in Omaha NE and Papillion NE our team of doctors and support staff is ready to help you when you are experiencing sciatica pain.


Symptoms

When you are experiencing sciatica issues, the pain can be severe. The good news is that many times the condition can be relieved without surgery. The hallmark of sciatica is a pain that radiates from the buttocks down the back of one of your legs. This can create significant discomfort in any position that you try to get in. This can be a mild ache or a pain that feels like a deep burning sensation accompanied by excruciating pain. Sitting for long amounts of time can make the pain worse.


When to See a Doctor for Treatment

In mild cases, sciatica will clear up. However, if the condition lasts longer than a week, it is important to see your chiropractor. As the disease progresses, you will begin to develop muscle weakness in your legs and the pain will increase. Eventually, it can even affect your bowels and bladder control.


Causes of Sciatica

Sciatica develops when the nerve becomes pinched. This commonly occurs when you experience a herniated disk or a bone spur on your vertebrae. Diabetes and tumors compressing the spine can also create this condition.


Diagnosis

When you visit our doctors, they will do tests to determine your muscle strength and reflexes. This, along with an interview, will help them understand the levels of pain that you are experiencing. They may also order an x-ray to examine your spine for a herniated disk or bone spurs.


Treatment

If our doctors diagnose your sciatica, our chiropractor may recommend spinal adjustments. Chiropractic spinal adjustments can be used to reduce pressure and inflammation that can contribute to sciatica. The chiropractor may also include other therapies such as ultrasound therapy, muscle stimulation, laser therapy, and spinal decompression to be used in conjunction with the adjustments.

Our chiropractor will likely recommend some self-care measures that you can use at home between visits. This at-home care may include hot packs, cold packs, and stretching exercises.


Sciatica Treatment

If you are looking for sciatica relief without having to rely on pain medication or invasive procedures like surgery, call Millard Family Chiropractic and Wellness today.