I have a condition called sciatica. What is it and can you help?
The sciatic nerves are the largest and longest nerves in the body. At its largest, the sciatic nerve is about as big around as your thumb. When these nerves are irritated by the inflammation of nearby soft tissues, doctors refer to this as sciatica.
One of the most common causes of sciatic leg pain is the vertebral subluxation complex. It can be accompanied by the bulging or herniation of the soft pulpy discs which separate each spinal bone. This can irritate or put pressure on the sciatic nerve roots as they leave the spinal cord. The result can be shooting pain down either, or both legs.
In the past, treatment has involved pain medications, muscle relaxers, physical therapy, and even surgery. The chiropractic approach is to use carefully directed and controlled pressure to remove the interference of spinal structures. These chiropractic adjustments can be quite effective in reducing nerve irritation and its associated pain.
Sciatica, like other health problems that can be traced to the spine, often respond dramatically to the restoration of normal spinal function through conservative chiropractic care.
In Health,
Dr. Scott M. Parham
Clark Family Chiropractic
2300 S. 57th St. Suite 1
Fort Smith, AR 72903
(479) 484-0805