Sciatica is a condition associated with pain, numbness, or muscle weakness in the lower back, buttocks, or legs. Pain can be mild to severe, and can make simple movements such as walking difficult at times. Dr. Wade Taylor, and Dr. Shannon McKinney, the experienced providers at Accelerated Medical in Elko, NV, treat sciatica and can help you achieve relief from pain and other symptoms.
Sciatica Causes and Symptoms
The sciatic nerve is the longest in the body. It runs along the pelvis and extends from the lower back and hips down to the legs. There are smaller branches of the sciatic nerve that extend into the legs, which control the leg muscles and provide feeling to the legs and feet.
Sciatica is a condition that can develop when the sciatic nerve is injured, damaged, or irritated. Common causes of sciatica include:
- A bone spur or herniated/bulging disc puts pressure on a nerve
- Tightening of the muscle on the sciatic nerve (piriformis syndrome)
- Narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on the nerves (spinal stenosis)
Several symptoms can develop with sciatica, including pain or numbness that makes it difficult to walk at times. Pain can be felt in the hips, lower back, buttocks, and legs. Some patients experience pain that radiates from the spine down the back of one of the legs. Other symptoms include muscle weakness, a burning sensation, or numbness in the affected leg and foot.
Sciatica Treatments
Many effective methods are available for treating sciatica pain and discomfort, including chiropractic techniques to help heal damage or injuries to the sciatic nerve. The best treatment for you will depend on such factors as the cause of your condition, as well as the severity of your pain. The skilled doctors at our practice in Elko, NV, treat sciatica using one or more of the following methods:
- Chiropractic therapies
- Deep tissue massage
- Exercises and stretches
- Anti-inflammatory or pain relief medications
- Trigger point injections
- Muscle relaxants
If you are experiencing pain and discomfort or numbness due to sciatica, we can help. Our providers utilize a variety of methods to treat the underlying cause of the condition. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Taylor, and Dr. McKinney to discuss options for treating your sciatica by calling Accelerated Medical in Elko, NV, at (775) 753-7387.