If you have recently experienced back pain which radiates down your hips and legs, the cause may be sciatica. This condition is more common in middle-aged adults, and up to 43% of the population is affected by it at least once before the age of 50. If you believe you’re experiencing this condition and would like to learn more, continue reading as the chiropractors from Stoiber Chiropractic in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin, explain what sciatica is and the different treatment options available.

What Is Sciatica & How Is It Treated?

What is Sciatica?

The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body, beginning in the lumbar region of the spine and branching across the lower body. When there is an injury to the lower spine or a herniated disc, it can pinch the sciatic nerve, causing pain to radiate through the lower back, down the buttocks, and into the legs. The pain experienced as the result of this pinched nerve is known as sciatica.

What Causes Sciatica?

Sciatica is typically resulting from an injury or herniated disc in the spine. Sports injuries, particularly those related to heavy lifting with improper form are a common cause. However, it may also be due to sitting or standing for an extended period in a way which places pressure on the nerve.

Is This Condition Dangerous?

The severity of the condition varies from person to person, although many people can go back to their routine after a few weeks of rest, for others sciatica can be debilitating. The condition can make it difficult to walk or move normally, and in serious cases, it may result in nerve damage and loss of bladder control.

Which Treatment Options are Available?

Treatment options will vary based on the severity of your condition. Some patients can achieve pain relief and increased mobility by visiting a chiropractor for massage therapy and stretching. In more severe cases, however, surgery may be needed to treat the condition.

If you have been living with sciatica and are seeking pain relief, contact Stoiber Chiropractic at (715) 424-8000 to make an appointment. For more information on their treatments and services, visit them online.