What Is Sciatica?

What Is Sciatica?

Sciatica is the term used to refer to a problem with your sciatic nerve. There are different possible causes for the condition, which will be explored below, but to learn more about it and how it can be treated you can reach out to Dr. David Zumstein of Zumstein Chiropractic Clinic in Franklin, WI.

Sciatica Symptoms

The sciatic nerve is the largest in the body, it controls the muscles in the back of your leg and knee and provides feeling for the back of your thigh, lower leg, and sole of your foot.

Common symptoms can include weakness in the above-mentioned areas, and pain ranging from moderate to severe. The pain can worsen with movement and is typically localized to one side of your body, and in severe cases, you may experience loss of feeling and movement.

The most common causes for sciatica are usually a herniated disc as well as injury to the pelvic region, though in some cases no clear cause can be determined.

A herniated disc, or slipped disc, occurs when a spinal disc is squeezed from the vertebrae. This can result in a pinched nerve which can lead to many of these symptoms.

Sciatica Treatment in Franklin, WI

Your chiropractor can provide spinal manipulation and adjustments to allow the herniated disc to return to place, reduce misalignment, and ease pressure on the sciatic nerve directly.

Physical therapy can strengthen your muscles and help improve your range of motion and flexibility. As pain decreases your physician may recommend an exercise regimen that can reduce your chances of reinjury.

If your condition, along with your symptoms, is severe then you may be recommended to a specialist who may prescribe surgery. However, there are many non-invasive ways to manage your sciatica symptoms and relieve your discomfort.

If you are struggling with sciatica symptoms and live in or near the Franklin, WI, area, you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Zumstein of Zumstein Chiropractic Clinic by dialing (414) 761-3330.