Sciatica refers to the pain and associated symptoms which travel from your lower back into your buttocks, groin, leg or foot. The sciatic nerve is the longest and largest nerve in the body. In fact, the sciatic nerve is about the thickness of your thumb.
Sciatica is quite common affecting approximately 40% of the population at some point in their lives. The causes of sciatica can vary from herniated and bulging discs to muscle spasms and spinal misalignments of the lower back. Although rare, infections and certain types of cancer can also cause sciatica.
Regardless of the cause, the pain can be mild or quite excruciating. In addition to pain, some patients will describe sensations of burning, numbness, or tingling depending upon what part of the sciatic nerve is being compressed or irritated.
Medication, epidural injections and surgery are commonly used to treat sciatica however, conservative chiropractic manipulation and spinal decompression have been proven to work quite well at reducing sciatic pain.
Dr. Stein has been treating patients with sciatica since 1987. Spinal manipulation and spinal decompression is non-invasive and some patients get relief in just a few treatments. In addition to performing a thorough examination, diagnostic tests such as x-rays and an MRI may be warranted so that Dr. Stein can properly evaluate your case.
Dr. Stein also works with orthopedists, neurologists and pain management specialists so that he can give his patients the most comprehensive care possible.
Call Dr. Stein to set up an appointment and to see if you may be a candidate for chiropractic care and spinal decompression for your sciatica.