A Plan of Attack for Sciatic Pain

Sciatica refers to ongoing pain along the sciatic nerve, which travels from the lower back through the hips, buttocks, and legs.

It often affects people in their 40s and 50s but can occur at any age, and is more common in people with jobs requiring repetitive motion, prolonged sitting, or heavy lifting. Pregnancy, obesity, and diabetes may also be risk factors. Fortunately, chiropractic sciatica treatment offers a natural treatment option for those unable or unwilling to medicate.

What Causes Sciatic Pain?

Sciatica results from irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in the body. Common causes include herniated (or slipped) discs, bone spurs, degenerative disc disease, or lumbar spinal stenosis.

Symptoms of Sciatica

The main symptom is consistent pain in the lower back and/or leg, ranging from a mild ache to a sharp, burning sensation. It may be experienced in one or both legs.

• Leg pain that is worsened by prolonged sitting.
• Pins and needles, or numbness in the lower limbs.
• Pain that extends to the feet or toes.

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, we recommend a thorough assessment by a chiropractor or medical professional for a diagnosis and to identify the root cause.

For some, sciatica is a short-term discomfort, but for others it can become a chronic issue that limits their mobility and quality of life. Daily activities, like bending, walking, or even standing, can be incredibly challenging.

Living with chronic pain can also lead to stress, fatigue, and mental health impacts, which is why at our Brisbane chiropractic clinic, we offer an holistic approach to treatment.

Traditional Treatments for Sciatica

Medical options typically include pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medications, muscle relaxants, and sometimes steroid injections. In severe cases, surgery might be recommended. However, these treatments often focus on symptom relief rather than addressing the root cause. They may also come with side effects or limited long-term benefits.

Chiropractic, Naturally!

According to research, chiropractic treatment is useful for:

• Relieving sciatic pain (1)
• Reducing inflammation (2) 
• Improving mobility (3)
• Preventing sciatica from returning (4)

At our Brisbane chiropractic clinic, we take a holistic approach to treating sciatica. We start with a thorough assessment to identify the underlying cause of your pain and create a personalised treatment plan. Our goal is not just to relieve symptoms but to support your overall spinal health, helping you enjoy a pain-free, active life.

By focussing on spinal alignment and nerve health, our experienced chiropractors aim to relieve the pressure on the sciatic nerve. Our natural and non-invasive techniques may include spinal adjustments like pelvic blocking or the Gonstead Technique, soft tissue therapy, or rehabilitative exercises.

We may also recommend lifestyle modifications, such as improving posture and learning proper heavy lifting techniques, as well as exercises to do at home to help reduce sciatic pain and improve function.

Sciatica Treatment in Brisbane

If sciatica is holding you back, chiropractic care may be the answer you’re looking for. If you're based in or around Indooroopilly in Brisbane, we invite you to book an appointment with a chiropractor at Equilibrium Family Wellness for natural sciatica treatment.

References:

1. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1556370716300165
2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0161475415002110
3. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0899346707600950
4. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0161475499701053