How Chiropractors Deal With Sciatica

Did you know that an estimated 30% of all American adults suffered from back pain in 2009? What these individuals might not have realized is that if back pain doesn’t subside after three days, healthcare providers should be sought out immediately. Chronic back pain, neck pain and any other kind of discomfort is not a good sign, and could indicate a serious medical problem. Thankfully, there are chiropractors, who aid in the treatment and prevention of musculoskeletal system problems. Chiropractic doctors make attempts to realign an individual’s spine to promote skeletal health, and solve any related issues. Their services are great for all kinds aches and pains, such as treatment for leg pain or even chronic headaches.

One such serious medical problem that chiropractors are able to help is Sciatica. According to the American Chiropractic Association (ACA), Sciatica is a set of symptoms that describes a severe leg pain caused by the compression, irritation, or inflammation of sciatic nerves, which are thick nerves extending down the back of each leg.

Chiropractors need to diagnose Sciatica carefully, so as to prescribe and apply the correct treatment for leg pain. First, they take a complete patient history. Next, they’ll ask for a description of the pain, when it began, and what activities intensify the pain. They’ll also conduct physical and neurological exams, in order to pay special attention to the spine and legs. This could include diagnostic imaging, such as x-ray, MRI or CT scans. This is to rule out other serious conditions, such as tumors or infections.

It’s important to keep in mind that Sciatica is a symptom, and not a stand-alone medical condition, says the ACA. Treatment for leg pain will often vary depending on the underlying cause of the problem. There are non-surgical and drug free treatment for leg pain options. The goal is to restore spinal movement by improving function while decreasing inflammation. Some such treatment for leg pain used by chiropractors include, but aren’t limited to, spinal adjustments, ice/heat therapy, ultrasound, TENS, and rehabilitative exercises.

In addition to providing treatment for back pain and spinal injury symptoms, chiropractors can also treat a number of other serious medical issues, such as Sciatica. If you have any questions about the treatment for leg pain that chiropractors can offer, feel free to ask in the comments. References.