Winston-Salem & Greensboro Chiropractic Treatment for Sciatica

Sciatica has several causes, all of which cause pain in the sciatic nerve that runs along the spine and down the back of both legs. At Liringis Chiropractic, serving the Greensboro and Winston-Salem areas, chiropractor Dr. Steve Liringis and chiropractor Dr. LaTanya Bowman offer treatments for patients suffering from sciatic nerve pain.

Symptoms and Causes of Sciatica

A common cause of pain in the sciatic nerve is a herniated disc. Discs act as cushions between the bones of the spine. A herniated disc occurs when one of the discs ruptures or becomes worn down. The out-of-place disc creates pressure on the sciatic nerve, which causes pain up and down the spine. Some people also feel numb or a tingling sensation in their back and legs. Another symptom is muscle weakness in the legs and back.

While a herniated disc is a common cause of sciatica, other factors can cause the pain as well. People who suffer from a narrowing of the spine, or spinal stenosis, are also likely to have sciatic nerve pain. A tight piriformis muscle may also cause pain. The piriformis muscle can also spasm, which is painful, as the muscle is directly over the top of the sciatic nerve. Other causes of back pain from sciatica include trauma from an auto accident, a personal injury, or a tumor on the spine. Usually, a patient will feel more pain when sitting down. In some rare cases, a sneeze may result in sciatic pain.

Pain Relief and Treatment

Chiropractic treatment has helped many patients suffering sciatic nerve pain. A spinal adjustment relieves pressure on the nerve, easing the feeling of pain and helping a patient regain motion and strength in the area. Massage of the pirformis muscle is another treatment option. Since the pain may be due to a tight muscle, massaging the area helps the muscle relax, reducing pain.

Has chiropractic care helped your sciatica? Let us know.