Struggling With Sciatica in Scottsdale AZ?

Sciatica is a condition that results in pain radiating along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back, through the hips and down the legs. Usually only occurring on one side of the body, sciatica can stem from many different conditions and experiences. Many people look for a Scottsdale AZ chiropractor so they don't have to suffer from the pain of sciatica, and many never achieve a long-term solution.

Sciatic Treatment in Scottsdale AZ

Sciatica causes include compression of the sciatic nerve by a herniated disc or bone spur, as well as accident and injury. In addition to pain, symptoms of sciatica include:

• Numbness and/or tingling in the extremities
• Muscle weakness
• Sensations of prickling
• Loss of sleep
• Limited mobility

Sciatica can make sitting and standing for long periods of time difficult and can lead to weakness, tingling, and numbness in the leg and foot. It will often come and go throughout a person's lifetime, causing periods of varying degrees of pain and discomfort. If left unchecked, sciatic pain will generally grow worse and the nerve can become permanently injured.

The reason why the pain travels so far, seems to radiate up and down the legs and back, is because it is caused by the compression of the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in the body. This nerve originates in the lumbar spine and extends into the buttocks before traveling down the leg to the ankle and foot. When the vertebrae in the low back are compressed, the roots of the sciatic nerve can become pinched and irritated which is what causes the pain and injury.

How Do You Develop Sciatica?

There are a number of factors that can lead to sciatica. It is most commonly caused by disc injuries and bulges. In this occurrence, the disc presses against the nerve root causing the issue. Disc Injuries can occur because of poor posture, repetitive use injuries, and accidents. Sciatica is also common when there are subluxations (misalignments) in the spine due to postural issues, pregnancy, or trauma. Some patients say they simply bent over to pick up a piece of paper and they were hit with extreme pain. The reality is that the spinal condition was probably developing for quite some time before the triggering incident occurred.

Chiropractic care for Sciatica

Chiropractors in Scottsdale AZ are highly trained to zero in on the source of sciatica and to work with the patient in determining the most suitable approach to treatment. With the correct treatment, sciatica leg pain can be easily alleviated. American Physical Medicine has many treatment options available, including physical therapy and massage. Giving each patient a thorough examination makes it is possible to determine the best course of treatment to bring nerve pain relief for patients suffering from sciatica.

Want to learn more about how American Physical Medicine may be able to help you overcome sciatica leg pain?  Please give us a call today to schedule your free consultation!