Back pain is one of the most common reasons people visit a chiropractor, and sciatica is one of the most common forms of back pain. Sciatica pain begins in the back and radiates through the buttocks and down the legs. At Dils Chiropractic in Carlisle, PA, Dr. David Dils offers a variety of treatments to help you return to your pain-free life.
The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the body, and it travels from your lower back down each leg. Many factors can lead to sciatica pain. If you are overweight, pregnant, maintain poor posture, live a sedentary life, lift incorrectly, suffer from deterioration of the discs in your back, or have swollen muscles, you may end up with a compressed sciatic nerve. A pinched nerve can burn, tingle, throb, and cause weakness that results in falls.
A chiropractor can help you find relief without resorting to medication or surgery. Every patient will be evaluated, and a different plan of action will be designed specifically for them. No two patients are alike, and their treatment will also reflect that.
Chiropractic adjustments
Chiropractic adjustments allow the chiropractor to get your spine back into alignment. When the spine is aligned, the sciatic nerve roots are less likely to be compressed. Adjustments can be done manually or with a spring-loaded instrument. Therapeutic massage may also be applied to get the soft tissues in the back to relax, allowing the adjustment to be more effective.
Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy can help with sciatica pain, especially if you have a flare-up. Cold slows down the circulation of blood to the area while relieving pain. When the blood comes flowing back after the cold pack is removed, it brings oxygen and nutrients that can help with healing.
Therapeutic exercise
Once the pain is relieved, it is important to do the correct exercises to prevent it from returning. Dr. Dils will show you the best exercises for your particular cause of sciatica pain, and you will continue to do them at home. You will likely be coached through a combination of strengthening exercises and stretches. A strong core and a flexible back will help reduce the risk of further misalignments compressing the sciatic nerve.
When you have sciatica pain in Carlisle, PA, Dr. David Dils of Dils Chiropractic offers holistic, non-medicative solutions. To make an appointment, give the office a call at 717-241-6263.