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People living with chronic lower back and leg pain are likely familiar with the term sciatica but may not know what it is. The staff at Spectrum Healthcare in Cornelia, GA, advise that many people mistake sciatica for a medical condition when it’s a series of symptoms. It’s crucial that you recognize them so you can seek treatment from a chiropractor as well as avoid further injury. Like any nerve issue, understanding triggers is the best way to make lifestyle changes and work toward recovery.

What Is Sciatica?

chiropractorSciatica is an umbrella term that covers a group of symptoms related to pain caused by the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is the largest in your body and runs from your spine to your lower back, buttock, and leg. When pressure is placed on the nerve, it can create constant pain. People dealing with sciatica experience burning or tingling in their buttock and leg as well as periods of weakness and numbness in the lower extremities. The pain often shoots down the leg, sometimes originating in the lower back.

Causes vary but are always related to the spine and lower back. It may be a herniated disc, joint dysfunction, a pinched nerve caused by muscles, or constant back muscle tension. The pain can be debilitating at times, which is why you should always seek treatment from a chiropractor.

How Is It Treated?

Sciatica is rarely a medical emergency and can be treated at home and with chiropractic care. First, see a chiropractor for a proper diagnosis. They’ll then create a physical therapy plan that may include an acupuncture regimen, spinal manipulations and adjustments, massage therapy, and epidural steroid injections. Surgery is an option in the most serious cases where sciatica begins to affect mobility.

If you’re dealing with sciatica and other pain, turn to a chiropractor at Spectrum Healthcare. They’ll work closely with you to diagnose and treat your condition and are committed to helping their patients properly manage and recover from their health issues. Call (706) 778-0077 today to schedule a consultation with a chiropractor and visit their website and Facebook page to learn more about their physical therapy options.

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