Sciatica Care in Ponsonby
Painful and often debilitating, sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve – the longest one in the body – becomes aggravated or compressed. This often leads to sharp pain, tingling, or numbness that radiates from the lower back down through the hips and legs, usually affecting one side of the body. People can experience everything from mild discomfort to excruciating pain, making daily activities such as standing, sitting, or walking challenging.
Common Symptoms
- A sharp, burning pain that begins in the lower back and radiates down the leg
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg that’s affected
- Difficulty standing or sitting for long periods
- Pain that worsens with certain movements like bending or coughing
What Are the Common Causes?
Sciatica commonly results from conditions that compress the sciatic nerve, including:
- Herniated discs: When spinal discs bulge or rupture, they can press on the nerve.
- Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal that compresses the sciatic nerve.
- Injuries: Trauma to the lower back can lead to nerve compression.
The Role of Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive, drug-free approach to addressing sciatica, focusing on spinal adjustments to relieve nerve pressure. Our chiropractor may use the following techniques:
Diversified Technique
A precise manual thrust is applied to the spine to correct misalignments, using a specific direction, speed, and depth tailored to the patient’s needs.
Activator Methods
A handheld, spring-loaded tool delivers a low-force, high-speed thrust, providing a controlled adjustment to specific spinal areas.
Sacro Occipital Technique (SOT)
This technique uses wedge-shaped blocks to help correct the alignment between the pelvis and the head, promoting optimal nervous system function.
Thompson Technique
A full spine adjustment method that uses a specialised table to deliver low-force, high-velocity adjustments, relieving pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Massage therapy may also be integrated into your care plan if determined necessary by our chiropractor to enhance muscle relaxation and aid in recovery.
Take That First Step Towards Relief
Chiropractic care may significantly reduce sciatica symptoms, improving mobility and overall quality of life. Contact Ponsonby Chiropractic today to schedule a consultation.
