Sciatica is a common condition that causes sciatic pain, numbness, or tingling that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve—from the lower back through the hips, buttocks, and down each leg. While many people experience occasional lower back discomfort, sciatica specifically refers to nerve pain caused by compression in the lower spine. This type of sciatic pain can range from mild to severe and may limit your ability to move freely or perform everyday activities.
The most common cause of sciatica is a herniated disc in the lower spine, where the disc material pushes out and presses on the sciatic nerve, leading to sciatic pain. Other causes of nerve pain include spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal), degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis (slipping of the vertebrae), or muscle imbalances in the lower back. In some cases, sciatica can be triggered by lifestyle factors such as prolonged sitting, poor posture, or heavy lifting. Although less common, conditions like tumors or infections can also lead to compression of the sciatic nerve, resulting in sciatic pain.
In scientific terms, sciatica is linked to radiculopathy, which refers to nerve root irritation or compression. A 2018 study published in the "Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine" showed that nearly 90% of sciatica cases are caused by disc herniation, with the remaining cases often resulting from spinal stenosis or degenerative disc disease. The pain associated with sciatica is often described as radicular pain, which is a sharp, shooting nerve pain that follows the path of the sciatic nerve.
A 2015 study published in the "Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics" found that spinal manipulation performed by a chiropractor resulted in improved pain levels, greater mobility, and better overall quality of life for patients suffering from sciatic pain. Chiropractic care also helps correct muscle imbalances that may contribute to the condition. By strengthening and stretching muscles around the lower back and legs, chiropractic treatment can reduce the risk of future flare-ups and help prevent nerve pain associated with sciatica.
At Chiro Health Vision, we offer personalised chiropractic treatments designed to relieve sciatica pain, support long-term recovery, and prevent future flare-ups. Our approach helps restore movement, reduce inflammation, and support spinal health, enabling you to live a pain-free, active life.
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