Sciatica, or nerve pain that moves down one or both legs, can be treated by a chiropractor. Many patients find that chiropractic treatment for nerve pain is more effective than many other treatment options. If you’ve been living with this pain, understand how a chiropractor can help to decide if it’s time to schedule an appointment.

Guide to Chiropractic Care for Sciatica

Why It Can Help

Sciatica is a symptom of nerve compression, which is commonly referred to as a pinched nerve. There are many problems that can lead to a pinched nerve — such as pregnancy, tumors, slipped discs, and an injured piriformis muscle; this is the muscle that connects the spine to the thigh bone and is adjacent to the sciatic nerve. The nerves sit by the spine, so manipulation of the spine can relieve that pressure. By treating the cause of the pain rather than focusing on covering up the symptom, a chiropractor can provide long-term relief and better health.

How It Can Help

A chiropractor has an in-depth knowledge of the central nervous system. Based on where a patient is feeling numbness, tingling, or shooting pains, they can determine which nerve is causing the pain. They may use diagnostic testing such as an X-ray, MRI, CT scan, or electrodiagnostic tests. Once they know which nerve requires relief, they can create a treatment plan that will relieve the compression.

They can do an in-office spinal manipulation — commonly referred to as adjustments — to restore the vertebrae to their appropriate positions. They can use an ultrasound to improve circulation and relieve pain. They can use cold therapy to reduce inflammation and pain. Also, they may use a TENS unit — or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation — to send a small electrical current into the offending muscle; this prevents the muscle spasms that agitate a nerve.

An experienced chiropractor can efficiently diagnose and treat your sciatica. If you have pain originating in your lower back or buttock that’s affecting one or both legs, schedule an appointment with Augustine Chiropractic in Wesley Chapel, FL. Dr. Brian Augustine has been providing effective and natural pain relief for over 30 years. This team works with most insurance companies to cover the costs of your care. Contact the clinic online or at (813) 994-6008 to schedule your appointment.