Anatomy of the Sciatic Nerve:

The sciatic nerve begins in the lower spine and passes through the pelvis and buttocks, it then travels down the back off each leg and branches off into smaller nerves into the feet and toes. The sciatic nerve is known as the main highway of nerves signals from your spine to your legs.

Causes:

• Disc bulge or herniated disc: The soft center of a spinal disc pushes out and compresses the nerve root.

• Degenerative disc disease: Age-related disc wear and tear.

• Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal.

• Piriformis syndrome: The piriformis muscle spasms and irritates the nerve (often in people who sit a lot).

• Trauma: Direct injury to the lower spine or pelvis.

Symptoms:

• Sharp, burning, or shooting pain in the lower back, buttock, and down the leg.

• Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot ("pins and needles").

• Muscle weakness in the affected leg or foot.

• Worsens with sitting, standing up, coughing, sneezing, or bending.

What can we do to help?

Our chiropractors can help by addressing the underlying mechanical issues in your spine and pelvis that may be compressing or irritating the sciatic nerve. The treatments may include spinal adjustments, mobilzation, soft tissue therapy, posture and ergonomic advice, and exercises.

Treatment:

• Rest - This may be a short term fix and it is important to remember that some movement is still important!

• Heat/ice therapy

• Anti-inflammatory medications (e.g. ibuprofen)

• Chiropractic care

• Steroid injections (for more severe cases)