The sciatic nerve in the largest nerve in the human body and extends from the lower back and down the back of each leg. When this nerve is compressed or irritated, the common result is lower back pain that radiates to the buttocks and legs. Sometimes, there is also numbness or leg weakness. Symptoms range from moderate to severe pain, and sciatica pain can appear quickly and last for weeks. What separates back pain from sciatica pain is the manner in which it travels from the legs to the feet. Most people who experience sciatica pain are in their 30s through 50s. It’s not uncommon for pregnant women get sciatica due to pressure on the sciatic nerve from the developing fetus. Other causes of sciatic include degenerative arthritis of the spine and herniated disc.
Herniated disc is the most common cause of sciatica. Discs act as cushions between the vertebrae. When there is degeneration or injury, its inner gel may leak out and put pressure on the roots of the sciatic nerve. The natural wear and tear of the vertebrae can lead to a narrowing of the spinal canal, known as spinal stenosis. Like a herniated disc, spinal stenosis can impinge the sciatic nerve. Piriformis syndrome is a lesser cause of sciatica, and it occurs more often in women. The piriformis muscle in located in the buttocks and runs across the sciatic nerve. If this muscle spasms, it can cause sciatica. Other causes of sciatica include injury, inflammation and infection.
Chiropractors often perform muscle tests and use diagnostic imaging tests like an MRI or CT scan to diagnose sciatica. Diagnostic imaging tests can provide detailed information of underlying structures that are causing compression of sciatic nerve.
RxWellness Spine & Health: Treatment for Sciatica
RxWellness Spine & Health is located in Herndon and services patients in Reston, Sterling, Chantilly and surrounding areas. Dr. Philip Golinsky runs a patient-centered health care facility and offers a multi-faceted treatment plan for patients suffering from pain due to sciatica. When you visit with Dr. Philip Golinsky, he performs a comprehensive physical exam along with diagnostic testing to identify the root cause of your sciatica pain. Depending on tests results, he creates a personalized treatment plan that may integrate different therapeutic modalities for optimal results.
With spinal adjustments, Dr. Philip Golinsky applies manual pressure to properly align the spine and its components. Many patients experience some level of relief after just one adjustment. If your sciatica is due to discs pressuring on each other and the sciatic nerve roots, he may integrate spinal decompression therapy into the treatment plan. Spinal decompression therapy gently stretches the spine to create more space in between the discs. Other treatment modalities may include cold laser therapy, electric stimulation and VibraFlex technology.
If you’re suffering from sciatica, call RxWellness Spine & Health at 703-904-9666 to set up an effective treatment plan. We’ve helped many and can help you too.