Sciatica

Up to 40% of Americans experience sciatica at some point. The condition can be crippling, but chiropractic care provides lasting relief. At Lake Travis Chiropractic in Austin, Texas, experienced chiropractor Ryan Smith, DC, manages sciatica pain with the Gonstead Method of chiropractic care. This method uses diagnostic imaging and other state-of-the-art technologies to precisely pinpoint pain and holistically guide treatment. Call Lake Travis Chiropractic today to schedule sciatica treatment, or book your appointment online.

What is sciatica?

Sciatica occurs when your sciatic nerve — the longest and largest nerve in your body — is compressed and/or inflamed. This inflammation and/or compression results in severe lower back and buttock pain, affecting your mobility and quality of life.

Although painful, sciatica typically responds to conservative and integrative treatments. At Lake Travis Chiropractic, Dr. Smith uses chiropractic adjustments and other holistic measures to treat sciatica pain at its source and promote healing.

What are the symptoms of sciatica?

Sciatic symptoms include:

• Lower back and/or buttocks pain
• Tingling or pins-and-needles sensation
• Numbness
• Muscle weakness
• Mobility problems

In severe instances, sciatica can cause urinary and/or bowel incontinence, meaning you can’t control urination and bowel movements.

What causes sciatica?

Sciatica occurs for various reasons, including herniated discs, pregnancy, and spinal stenosis. It can also result from an injury like an auto accident or fall.

Sciatica affects people of all ages but is most common in those 40 and older. Other things can also increase your risk. For instance, if your job requires heavy lifting, bending, or other physically demanding activities, it could irritate your sciatic nerve, raising your risk.

How does a chiropractor diagnose sciatica?

Dr. Smith reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms, including where the pain is, what it feels like, and if it gets worse at specific times, like when you first get out of bed or stand after sitting.

He completes a physical exam and orders diagnostic imaging, like an MRI or an ultrasound. These procedures allow Dr. Smith to see your sciatic nerve and determine if it’s being pinched by a bone, herniated disc, or the surrounding soft tissues.

How does a chiropractor treat sciatica?

At Lake Travis Chiropractic, Dr. Smith uses integrative and holistic treatments to manage sciatica. He could suggest:

• Chiropractic adjustments to relieve nerve compression and realign your spine
• Improved posture
• Ice and heat therapy
• Topical pain relievers
• Exercises and stretches to strengthen your core
• Stress management activities to relieve stress and relax muscles
• Improved diet
• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)

Most people with sciatica benefit from several treatments. Dr. Smith monitors your symptoms at regular checkups and adjusts your care plan when needed.

Call Lake Travis Chiropractic today to schedule sciatica treatment, or book your appointment online.