Sciatica Relief in Glen Carbon
Sciatica: Finding Relief and Restoring Mobility
Understanding Sciatica and Its Impact
Sciatica can be one of the most debilitating conditions that brings patients through our doors at Superior Chiropractic & Rehab. This painful condition occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back through your hips and down each leg, becomes compressed or irritated. Many patients describe the sensation as a sharp, shooting pain that makes everyday activities nearly impossible.
What Causes Sciatica?
Several conditions can lead to sciatic nerve compression. The most common causes we see include herniated or bulging discs that press against the nerve root. Spinal arthritis can narrow the spaces where nerves exit the spine, creating pressure on the sciatic nerve. Another frequent culprit is piriformis syndrome, where a small muscle in your buttocks tightens or spasms, irritating the nearby sciatic nerve.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Sciatica typically manifests as pain, numbness, or tingling that radiates from your buttocks down through your leg, sometimes reaching all the way to your foot. Many patients notice the pain worsens when coughing or sneezing. Standing or sitting for extended periods often aggravates symptoms, while gentle walking may provide temporary relief. The consistency and pattern of your symptoms help us identify the underlying cause and develop the most effective treatment plan.
Our Comprehensive Treatment Approach
At Superior Chiropractic & Rehab, we believe in addressing the root cause of your sciatic pain, not just masking the symptoms. Our treatment plans typically combine precise chiropractic adjustments to restore proper spinal alignment with targeted physical therapy to strengthen supporting muscles. We also incorporate extension-based exercises that relieve pressure on the nerve, along with additional modalities to reduce inflammation and pain. Most patients see significant improvement within just two weeks, though complete resolution typically requires a 2-3 month treatment plan.
Living Well With a Healthy Spine
Beyond in-office treatments, we empower our patients with lifestyle recommendations that support lasting relief. These include:
- Engaging in 30-60 minutes of appropriate daily exercise
- Implementing stress reduction techniques
- Making nutritional improvements to reduce inflammation
- Ensuring adequate sleep for optimal healing
- Practicing extension exercises to maintain proper spinal mechanics
At Superior Chiropractic & Rehab, we’re committed to helping you overcome sciatic pain and return to the activities you love. Our approach treats not just your symptoms but aims to correct the underlying issues for long-term relief. We understand how frustrating sciatic pain can be, and we’re here to partner with you every step of the way on your journey back to comfort and mobility.
