Sciatica is a medical condition marked by pain caused by or sciatic nerve irritation. When the sciatic nerve becomes compressed, it can result in varying levels of pain, occasionally reaching a debilitating intensity in the lower back and legs that can easily disrupt daily life. At Cheatwood Chiropractic, Dr. Janice Cheatwood and her team of professionals serve greater Brandon, FL, offering a variety of non-invasive chiropractic and complementary treatments to relieve current sciatic symptoms and prevent a future flare-up.
What is Sciatica?
Originating in the lower back and extending down and through each leg, the sciatic nerve is the longest in the body. When irritated or compressed, the resulting pain ranges from mild to intense – and is felt in the lower back and usually down one leg.
The pain emanating from a sciatica condition is usually from one of the following -
- A back injury.
- Other trauma types.
- Spinal Stenosis.
- Degenerative Disc Disease.
- A herniated spinal disc.
It's essential to note that sciatica causes vary, and it typically requires a comprehensive medical evaluation to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
How Can a Brandon, FL, Chiropractor Help Reduce Sciatica Symptoms?
A chiropractor has various techniques in their tool chest to help alleviate the pressure that has been placed upon the sciatic nerve. Patients may potentially receive one or a combination of these chiropractic and complementary services -
- Chiropractic Adjustments are effective in shifting the space between spinal discs, which helps reduce the compression or pressure on the nerve causing the pain.
- Mechanical Spinal Decompression.
- Electric Muscle Stimulation.
- Massage Therapy.
Additionally, Dr. Cheatwood can educate you about how to take a proactive personal approach to avoid another sciatica flare-up – i.e., proper lifting techniques.
Sciatica Self-Care
With a chiropractor's approval, consider these essential self-care suggestions -
Rest - Refrain from moving in ways that could worsen the condition.
Hot/Cold Therapy - Ice reduces inflammation, while heat promotes blood flow. Do not apply either cold or hot therapies to the skin directly.
Gentle Stretching - Maintain range of motion and flexibility by gentle stretching.
Gentle Exercise - Research suggests that moderate exercise reduces pain and enhances core strength.
Contact a Leading Brandon, FL, Chiropractor For Sciatica Relief.
You don't have to give up your active, outdoor Florida lifestyle because of sciatic pain. Contact Dr. Cheatwood or a staff member at Cheatwood Chiropractic. We can be reached by phone at 813-681-4418, by text at 813-399-1539, or online.