Sciatica refers to the symptoms that occur in leg pain- including numbness, tingling or weakness. It beings from the region in the lower back, and radiates from the buttock to the sciatic nerve that is present at the back of every leg. A common misconception that many people have is that sciatica is a medical condition in itself. In fact, sciatic nerve pain is a symptom of other conditions, which could range from lumbar herniated disc to spinal stenosis and degenerative disc disease among a range of other conditions.
Some of the symptoms that are associated with sciatica include (but are not limited to):
- A pain that worsens while sitting;
- A constant pain that occurs in only 1 side of the leg or buttock, rarely in both;
- A leg pain that is similar to searing, tingling or burning as opposed to a dull pain;
- Numbness, dullness or difficulty in moving the foot, toes or the complete leg;
- A sharp pain that makes standing up and walking tough;
Sciatic pain rarely occurs in both the legs or in the foot. This is a pain that could be infrequent to a constant pain that can potentially incapacitate the person. The symptoms of sciatica are mostly related to the location of the particular nerve that is pinched.
What should you do in case of sciatica?
The first thing that you must do if you feel that you have the symptoms of sciatica or sciatic nerve pain is to visit your health professional. A chiropractor is the best person to go in case of such symptoms. Dr. Cheree will diagnose if it really is sciatic nerve pain, and if it is, then what could be the underlying condition that is causing it. While taking painkillers might provide symptomatic relief, it can also worsen the problem.
Thus, regardless of the nature of the pain, visiting Chiropractic Healing Center is the best way to ensure that it is treated and managed well. Do not fall for OTC cures- these are not permanent and will only give a temporary relief. A condition like sciatica can be cured and managed effectively with the treatment of a chiropractor.
