Manage Sciatica
WHAT IS SCIATICA?
Sciatica is a symptom of a medical condition characterized by immense pain that is localized in regions supplied by the sciatic nerve especially the lumbosacral nerve roots, L4-S2. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body supplying muscles of the lower limb and the sensation of the skin of the foot. It is relatively common affecting approximately 4 out of 10 people in the United States. The condition is often associated with lower back pain. In fact, studies have shown that an estimated 5-10% of people suffering from lower back pain have sciatica. However, contrary to the popular belief, sciatica isn’t limited to the back. The pain often run down from the back to the back of the legs. Those who’ve experienced sciatica can tell you that aside from the pain, there’s probably a lot more you do not know about this condition. In this article, we will explore more about this condition and its management through chiropractic practices.
WHAT CAUSES SCIATICA?
While there are several causes of sciatica, 90% of cases are due to spinal disc herniation. The bony spine is made up of vertebral bones which form a canal through which the spinal cord runs its course. Between vertebral bones are cartilaginous disks which act as cushions allowing the spinal column to be flexible. Certain conditions may cause the disk to be dislocated out of place resulting into the compression of spinal nerve roots, in this case, the sciatic nerve roots. Other causes include: