Top 5 Most Common Symptoms of Sciatica
The sciatic nerve originates in the lower back and runs through the hips, buttocks, and legs. When this nerve is injured, pinched, or irritated, you may experience a set of symptoms known as sciatica. It can be easy to confuse sciatica with other causes of back pain, so it is important to talk with our chiropractor to determine the cause of your discomfort. At Atlantic Chiropractic and Rehabilitation, we understand the signs and symptoms of sciatica and can help residents in and around Chesapeake to find relief.
Low Back & Lower Body Pain
The most common symptom of sciatica is pain in the lower back, hips, and legs. While this pain may be a dull, consistent ache, many people experience sharp shooting pains. Often, the pain radiates down the body along the sciatic nerve.
Sciatic Nerve Pain
Sciatic nerve pain is often described as a stabbing pain or a burning sensation. Often, sciatic nerve pain remains consistent at a low level and rapidly intensifies with sudden movements, like twisting, coughing, or sneezing. Sciatic nerve pain may also increase when sitting or standing for long periods, as this increases the pressure placed on the sciatic nerve.
Tingling Sensations
Another common symptom of sciatica is pins and needles sensations in the lower body. These tingling sensations may occur at any spot along the sciatic nerve pathway, including the lower back, buttocks, legs, feet, and toes. While the tingling sensations are usually mild, they can occasionally feel like an electric shock.
Muscle Weakness
Another symptom of sciatica is muscle weakness in the legs. Usually, the weakness impacts only one side of the body and can make walking and moving difficult.
Numbness
In some cases, people with sciatica experience numbness, especially in the lower legs, feet, and toes. Like other sciatica symptoms, numbness generally occurs on one side of the body.
Sciatica Treatment in Chesapeake, VA
The symptoms of sciatica can be painful, frustrating, and limit your participation in physical activities. Chiropractic care can ease pressure and reduce irritation of the sciatic nerve. With the symptoms of your sciatica in check, you can get back to your pain-free life. Call our team at Atlantic Chiropractic and Rehabilitation today at (757) 547-4325 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Santjer.