There are many causes of sciatica, including:

• Lumbar Herniated Disc
• Degenerative Disc Disease
• Isthmic Spondylolisthesis
• Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
• Degenerative Spondylolisthesis

The most effective treatment for sciatica varies from patient to patient. Depending on the level of pain associated with the sciatic nerve, treatments can range from at-home remedies to professional therapies. Fortunately, the majority of sciatica cases can heal without the need of surgery. Common treatment options for sciatica include:

• Physical therapy
• Steroid injections
• Chiropractic care
• Massage therapy
• Custom orthotics

Additionally, patients can help manage mild symptoms with home remedies like cold and hot packs, stretching, and over-the-counter pain-relievers. However, it is always a good idea to have your symptoms evaluated by a medical professional, especially if they have persisted for longer than three months or interfere with day-to-day activities. Before trying any remedies you may be interested in, check with your doctor to see if they are right for you.

Symptoms of sciatica are more distinct than other conditions and are typically characterized by:

• Pain that is limited to the low back, buttock, hip, and leg on one side of the body only
• Pain or numbness deep within the buttocks
• Lower back pain
• Nerve tingling, prickling, or electric shocking sensation
• Pain that is sharp, burning, or tingling
• Weakness in the affected leg, resulting in instability and buckling of the knee
• Pain that is worse when standing or sitting, but improves when lying down

The diagnosis of sciatica depends on its root cause. In most cases, a sciatica diagnosis begins with a physical examination performed by a physician. They may start by asking about any symptoms or pain that may be related to sciatica. Next, the doctor may test muscle strength, taking notes of any numbness or weakness. They may also observe the patient while walking, sitting, standing, or lying down in order to determine when the pain is happening and the cause of any discomfort. The examining physician may order an imaging test if they require more information before prescribing treatment. These may include:

• CT scan
• Electromyography (EMG)
• MRI
• X-ray

These imaging tests can determine if sciatica is caused by compressed herniated discs or bone spurs.

It is important to see a chiropractor for sciatica when experiencing any of the following:

• Pain that interferes with daily activities
• Pain that makes it difficult to walk
• Sudden and excruciating pain
• Pain that is accompanied by swelling and a fever
• Loss of leg movement or sensation
• Loss of bowel or bladder control

If you or someone you love is experiencing symptoms of sciatica, it is important to be evaluated by a medical professional. The trusted medical professionals at Harvest Pointe Chiropractic & Integrative Health Centre can effectively evaluate, diagnose and treat sciatica. We are dedicated to treating the underlying cause of the condition, rather than simply covering up its symptoms.