New Solutions To Sciatica in Kingston WA

Sciatica refers to pain that is caused by inflammation of the sciatic nerve and is generally a symptom of another diagnosis or problem associated with the spine. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body; stemming from the lower back and traveling down the pelvis and into the lower legs. Sciatic pain originates in the low back and gluteal region and causes a radiating, sharp or a shooting pain down the leg. Underlying conditions causing sciatica include; spinal stenosis, herniated disc, piriformis syndrome, and a number of other ailments. Generally, sciatic pain only affects one side of the body at a time. Chiropractic and massage can be effective tools in combating pain associated with sciatica in Kingston WA. Treatment for sciatica will depend on the root cause and type of sciatica you are suffering from. Appendicular sciatica’s root cause is soft tissue related, thus will respond better to soft tissue manipulation (massage). On the other hand, axial sciatica relates to impingements in the spine and will respond better to chiropractic adjustments and lighter massage techniques.

Chiropractic Care for Sciatica in Kingston WA

Chiropractors have extensive knowledge and the required training in order to identify sciatica and manipulate the affected area in order to relieve pressure caused by sciatica. Chiropractic treatment for sciatica may differ from patient to patient depending on the underlying condition causing sciatic pain. Chiropractic is a non-invasive alternative that allows the body to heal itself by using spinal manipulation (adjustments) to realign the spine and relieve pressure on the nervous system. Relieving pressure on the nervous system reduces inflammation within the body and allows for a restoration in range of motion within the affected areas. Your chiropractor will also come up with a treatment plan in order to further combat sciatica and associated pains. Further treatment may include decompression, icing, use of a TENS unit, an exercise program, etc. Massage therapy is also a great therapeutic tool that allows massage practitioners to manipulate the muscles surrounding the sciatic nerve.

Tension in the muscles surrounding the sciatic nerve, including the gluteal and lower back muscles, can lead to painful nodules commonly referred to as trigger points or knots. Massage helps alleviate muscle tension and assists in releasing the sciatic nerve. Massage can also release endorphins which can provide pain relief from sciatica pain. Effective massage treatments for patients with sciatica will vary depending on the root cause. The sciatic nerve runs deep to the superficial muscles of the lower back. Given the location of the sciatic nerve, deeper massage will help patients suffering from appendicular sciatica by releasing muscles surrounding the sciatic nerve. Axial sciatica may become further aggravated by deep tissue massage techniques due to being associated with spinal disorder. Therapists should perform lighter work on patients affected by axial sciatica to avoid causing further aggravation. Massage can also provide improved circulation and mobility in the areas surrounding the sciatic nerve.

Massage in conjunction with chiropractic can provide a patient with relief of symptoms associated with sciatica. Patients should schedule routine visits in both specialites to be able to relieve the symptoms of sciatica and to ensure symptoms don't return.

For more information call our team at Foundation Chiropractic in Kingston WA today to schedule an appointment!