If you suffer from a pain, numbness or tingling sensation that radiates down one side from the lower back, buttock, into the leg, often below the knee to your foot and toes, there is a strong possibility you are suffering with Sciatica. We can help diagnose your condition and develop a treatment plan to treat your Sciatica.

What is Sciatica?

Sciatica refers to the radiating pain caused by and injury or irritation to the longest nerve in the body that carries messages from the brain down the spinal cord to the legs, the sciatic nerve. Sciatica can be present almost anywhere along the nerve pathway; however, the pain typically radiates down one side from the lower back, buttock, into the leg, often below the knee to the calf.

Sciatica Symptoms

Sciatic pain can vary from a mild ache to a sharp, burning pain – sometimes feeling like a jolt or an electric shock – to numbness, tingling or muscle weakness in the leg. Sitting for a prolonged period can worsen the pain, as can coughing or sneezing.

Causes of Sciatica

For many reasons, sciatica is most common in people aged 30 to 50.  The discomfort often arises when the sciatic nerve becomes compressed or irritated from a variety of underlying issues, with herniated discs and bone spurs among the primary culprits. While it can be debilitating, understanding its causes and available treatments can offer relief and aid in recovery.

• Herniated Discs: When the soft, jelly-like inner material of a spinal disc protrudes outward, it can pinch or inflame the nearby nerves, including the sciatic nerve, causing pain and discomfort.

• Spinal Stenosis: This condition involves the narrowing of the spinal canal, placing pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, resulting in sciatic pain.

• Piriformis Syndrome: The piriformis muscle, located in the buttocks, can compress the sciatic nerve, causing similar symptoms to those of true sciatica.

The Benefits of Chiropractic for Sciatica

Chiropractic care can be an effective approach for managing sciatica, offering a number of benefits such as pain reduction, improved mobility, and a drug-free, non-invasive treatment. Chiropractors utilise diagnostic tools (Digital X-Ray, Postural Assessment) and therapeutic techniques (spinal adjustments, massage therapy, and stretching) to address the underlying causes of sciatica and alleviate symptoms.

At The Optimum Spine Centre we specialise in providing professional and effective chiropractic care for sciatica sufferers. Our team of experienced chiropractors is dedicated to helping you find relief and improve your quality of life.