The sciatic nerve is the largest peripheral nerve in the body. When someone speaks about sciatica, he is referring to inflammation of the sciatic nerve. This nerve sends information about leg movement and feelings to the brain.
The pain of sciatica is pretty intense. It radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve that runs from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down the leg. Generally, only one leg is affected. A tingling feeling, numbness, or even weakening of the muscles can occur with sciatica. Some may even experience an electric shock type feeling. It commonly gets worse while sitting for long periods, coughing, or sneezing.
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Why Does Sciatica Happen?
Pressure against the sciatic nerve causing irritation can happen due to a number of conditions. Some of these include:
- Bone spurs
- Bulging discs
- Spondylolisthesis
- Tumors on the spinal cord or roots of the sciatic nerve
- Lumbar spinal canal stenosis
- Poor posture
- Injury to the spine or neck
- Piriformis syndrome
- Herniated discs
How an Injury Can Affect the Sciatic Nerve and What to Do
If a person has recently had an accident or injury, his muscles and tissues react to this by shifting. This places pressure on certain parts of the body. If this includes the sciatic nerve, the end result will be sciatica.
An important thing for anyone to do that has been injured is to seek the care of an upper cervical chiropractor. The upper cervical spine, consisting of the top two vertebrae, is susceptible to misalignments because of its mobility. A misalignment here of only ¼ of a millimeter can cause health issues throughout the body. Communication systems from the brain to the body are hindered. Even though this happens in the neck, the sciatic nerve can be affected. A misalignment can cause a change in posture that can lead to pressure being put on the sciatic nerve.
By allowing us to realign the upper cervical neck, communication is restored, and healing can begin. Our patients have reported seeing success in coping with sciatica after seeking out our care.
To schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Hejny, call our Spring Lake Park office at 763-230-0116. You can also click the button below.
If you are outside of the local area, you can find an Upper Cervical Doctor near you at www.uppercervicalawareness.com.