Sciatica Relief at Bagnell Chiropractic & Holistic Health

Common Causes of Sciatica

Sciatica is most often caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, leading to pain that radiates from the lower back down the leg. The most common causes include:

• Herniated or Slipped Discs: When the soft inner material of a spinal disc pushes out and presses on the sciatic nerve, it can trigger sciatica symptoms.

• Degenerative Disc Disease: Age-related wear and tear can cause the discs between vertebrae to break down, reducing cushioning and leading to nerve irritation.

• Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back can compress the sciatic nerve roots, especially in older adults.

• Spondylolisthesis: This condition occurs when a vertebra slips forward over the one below it, narrowing the space for nerves and causing compression.

• Piriformis Syndrome: The piriformis muscle in the buttocks can spasm or become tight, putting pressure on the sciatic nerve.

• Bone Spurs: Extra bone growths can develop on the spine, irritating or compressing the sciatic nerve.

Pregnancy: The weight and position of the baby can add pressure to the sciatic nerve, causing symptoms in some women.

Chiropractic Safety

Chiropractic care is highly effective for neck pain and carries minimal risk, with side effects usually limited to mild soreness. Compared to medications and surgery, chiropractic is a safe and cost-effective treatment option and should be considered a primary approach in addressing neck pain.

Patient Satisfaction

Overall, the patient assessment post care is a great measure in itself regarding the efficacy of chiropractic care for neck pain. Observational studies have consistently found that low back pain patients receiving chiropractic care, which typically includes (but is not restricted to) spinal adjustments, are more satisfied than those receiving medical care (Cherkin, 1989; Carey, 1995; Kane, 1974). Ultimately, chiropractic care leaves large numbers of patients pleased with their results. 

Research Supporting Chiropractic Care

One of the most recent reviews of scientific literature found evidence that patients with chronic neck pain enrolled in clinical trials reported significant improvement following chiropractic spinal manipulation. As part of the literature review, published in the March/April 2007 issue of the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, the researchers reviewed nine previously published trials and found “high-quality evidence” that patients with chronic neck pain showed significant pain-level improvements following spinal manipulation. No trial group was reported as having remained unchanged, and all groups showed positive changes up to 12 weeks post-treatment.

Our Office

During your visit to our office, the doctor of chiropractic will perform a detailed consultation and examination to locate the source of your pain. This will involve a series of questions about your current condition, followed by an exam. In the physical exam, your doctor will observe your posture, range of motion, and physical condition, noting movement that causes pain. The doctor will feel your spine, note its curvature and alignment, and feel for muscle spasm. If warranted the Doctor may order x-rays. Once all of the information is collected to develop a specific diagnosis, a report of findings will be delivered to you. If you qualify for conservative chiropractic care, recommendations for the appropriate adjustments and therapies will be provided.