Dealing With Sciatica

Sciatic nerve pain is one of the most common causes of back problems in the United States and one of the main reasons why people take over-the-counter pain relievers. Unfortunately, our lifestyles contribute greatly to this type of pain. Between sitting for long hours, poor posture, and bad diets, several factors contribute to the compression and inflammation of the sciatic nerve. Since sciatic nerve pain can be crippling, going to a professional is a great choice for relief. For those who are in West Seneca, NY, Universal Chiropractic is a fantastic choice to find pain relief for your sciatic nerve.

What Causes Sciatica?

The sciatic nerve runs down the back, hip, and legs. When it's compressed or impinged by a herniated disk or narrowing of the spine, it radiates pain and numbness from the back down to the feet. This sensation can cause pain. It can also cause pins and needles sensations, extreme numbness, and weakness in the legs. In severe cases, it can cause difficulty with bowel and bladder control.

Since the primary cause of sciatic nerve pain is usually herniated disks, certain risk factors are common in sufferers:

• Being overweight, putting more strain on your spine
• Advanced age
• A highly physical job that requires carrying and lifting heavy objects
• A highly sedentary job where sitting is the primary posture for most of the day

The Symptoms of Sciatic Nerve Pain

The primary symptom of sciatica is pain that goes from your lower back, down your buttocks, and into the back of your leg. This jolting shock of nerve pain can be debilitating, but it can occur as a mild burning as well and typically only occurs on one side of your body. Long periods of sitting or standing can make this problem worse, as can poor posture. Also, foot pain or numbness with no other seemingly obvious cause can be a manifestation of sciatic nerve problems.

Schedule an Appointment with Our Chiropractor in West Seneca, NY

Spinal manipulation can free up space between your vertebrae and relieve pressure on your spine, making the pain lessen or go away completely. Our licensed chiropractor in West Seneca, NY, will work directly to relieve your pain and then help you with lifestyle changes to prevent the problems that caused your sciatica to begin with. Weight loss, proper nutrition, and strength-building with exercises are all key elements of relieving your back pain and preventing it from returning. Call Universal Chiropractic today at (716) 822-2225 for a consultation and see what chiropractic medicine can do to help you live a pain-free life.