Sciatica

When you have pain along the sciatic nerve, you have sciatica. This condition keeps you from doing anything you need or want. If you have pain affecting your life, it's a good idea to call our Tuscaloosa, AL, office to schedule an appointment to get the necessary treatment.

The Sciatic Nerve

As the body's largest nerve, the sciatic nerve stretches over a large portion of the body. It begins in your lower back and branches down into both legs. When people get sciatica, they often only have it on one side. The most common reasons sciatica begins are a herniated disk in the spine or a bone spur on some spinal regions. Yet, it is also caused by spinal stenosis and a condition where the spine narrows. In addition, certain tumors can put pressure on this nerve, as can diabetes. Anytime this nerve is compressed, it can cause a lot of pain. In some patients, the pain is mild, while in others, it is moderate or even severe.

Causes of Sciatica

When pressure is put on the spine, this can cause sciatica. Both obesity and pregnancy place stress on the spine, causing pain in the sciatic nerve. In addition, several occupations requiring specific movements or lacking activity may cause pain over time. For example, if you sit or drive for long hours every day. Additionally, if you have to twist your back often at work or frequently carry heavy objects, diabetes can be another cause, as it often results in nerve damage.

Sciatica Symptoms

It's essential to note the changes in your body so you can get help when needed. If you have pain at any point along the nerve, it may be sciatica causing it. For example, you may have pain in the lower back, one hop, the buttocks, or the back portion of one leg. Usually, one side is affected by this condition. It can also cause numbness in one of these areas or feel tingling. It can also cause the leg or foot to have muscle weakness.

Schedule an Appointment with Our Chiropractor

There are ways our chiropractor can treat sciatica, so it's essential to see if you have sciatica symptoms. We will work with you no matter what spinal ailment. Call our Tuscaloosa, AL, office at (203) 345-8102.