Sciatic Pain: What May Be at the Root?

Sciatica is pain that is felt radiating down the leg from the lower back. The sciatic nerve has five nerve roots that can potentially become compressed or irritated. Many turn to medication, as this is the most convenient way to treat the pain. Eventually, however, the pain will return. It is important to find and correct the underlying problem. What are some possible causes of sciatic pain?

• Lumbar spinal stenosis: The spinal cord lies in a narrow canal that runs down the vertebrae. If this area begins to narrow, due to age or damage, it can put pressure on the spinal cord and sciatic nerves.
• Spinal disc herniation: This is a swelling or irritation of the sponge-like discs that protect the vertebrae from rubbing together.
• Bulging disc: If a disc becomes enlarged, it can put pressure on the sciatic nerve.
• Piriformis syndrome: A neuromuscular disorder that happens when the piriformis muscle in the hip presses on the nerve.
• Pregnancy: An unborn baby may place pressure on the sciatic nerve as the child develops.

To learn more about the connection between head and neck injuries and low back pain, download our free e-book by clicking the image below.

Natural Relief Care for the Pain of Sciatica

There are numerous other causes of sciatic pain. Since medication only covers over the symptoms, a natural, long-lasting solution is in order. This may be found by seeking the care of an upper cervical chiropractor. We are specifically trained to evaluate the spine, in particular, the top two bones of the vertebrae.

A misalignment is common in this art of the body, as it is a sensitive area and easily damaged by very little trauma, such as a mild head injury or whiplash. When this occurs, the head, weighing 10 – 14 pounds, becomes out of alignment with the rest of the body. The body then compensates for this, affecting the entire spine, particularly the lower back and pelvis area. This can be the underlying cause of sciatic pain.

While it may feel like the lower back is the issue, it actually may be higher up in the spine. Once this misalignment is fixed, healing of the entire spine can begin. The pressure being put on the sciatic nerve will be released, and can become a thing of the past.

 

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.