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112 Greenpoint Ave. STE 1B, Brooklyn, NY 11222Sciatica Treatment
Understanding Sciatica: Causes, Symptoms, and Natural Treatment Options
Learn about this common condition, its symptoms, and how holistic chiropractic care at Brooklyn Chiropractic Care can help you find lasting relief.
What is Sciatica?
Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which branches from your lower back through your hips and buttocks and down each leg. Typically, sciatica affects only one side of the body.
This condition most commonly occurs when a herniated disk, bone spur on the spine, or narrowing of the spine (spinal stenosis) compresses part of the nerve. This causes inflammation, pain, and often some numbness in the affected leg.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors can contribute to the development of sciatica, including:
- Age-related changes in the spine, such as herniated disks and bone spurs
- Excess weight, which increases stress on the spine
- Occupational factors, such as jobs that require heavy lifting, prolonged sitting, or driving
- Prolonged sitting, especially with poor posture
- Diabetes, which increases risk of nerve damage
- Pregnancy and childbirth, which can put pressure on the sciatic nerve
Common Symptoms
The hallmark symptom of sciatica is pain that radiates from your lower spine to your buttock and down the back of your leg. The pain can vary widely, from a mild ache to a sharp, burning sensation or excruciating pain. Other symptoms may include:
- Numbness or muscle weakness in the affected leg or foot
- Tingling or pins-and-needles sensation down the leg
- Pain that worsens with sitting or certain movements
- Shooting pain that makes it difficult to stand up or walk
- Loss of bowel or bladder function (rare but serious; requires immediate medical attention)
Sciatica pain can be severe and debilitating, but it usually resolves within a few weeks with the right treatment approach.
Natural Treatment Approaches for Sciatica
We understand that injuries and acute pain can happen unexpectedly. Our emergency chiropractic services are designed to provide prompt and effective care to help you manage. Our emergency chiropractic services are designed to provide prompt and effective care to help you manage.
While medications like pain relievers and muscle relaxants can provide temporary relief, they don’t address the underlying cause of sciatica. That’s where natural, non-invasive sciatica treatment approaches like chiropractic care come in.
At Brooklyn Chiropractic Care, we use a combination of:
- Spinal adjustments to improve alignment and reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve
- Manual therapies like massage and myofascial release to relieve muscle tension
- Corrective exercises to strengthen the core and improve flexibility in the hips and legs
- Ergonomic and lifestyle guidance to minimize pain triggers and promote healing
Research shows that chiropractic care can be highly effective for managing sciatica. A 2019 systematic review found that spinal manipulation significantly reduced pain intensity and improved function in patients with chronic sciatica.
Other natural remedies that may help ease sciatica symptoms include:
- Applying heat or cold packs to the painful area
- Gentle stretching and yoga
- Acupuncture
- Biofeedback therapy to reduce muscle tension
Our Holistic Approach to Sciatica Treatment
At Brooklyn Chiropractic Care, we take a comprehensive approach to treating sciatica. Our goal is not only to alleviate your pain but also to address the underlying causes and prevent future occurrences.
What sets us apart is our commitment to personalized treatment plans. We understand that each patient’s experience with sciatica is unique, which is why we take the time to thoroughly assess your condition and develop a tailored approach that addresses your specific needs and goals.
Our team of experienced chiropractors combines traditional chiropractic techniques with modern therapies to provide you with the most effective care possible. We’re dedicated to not only relieving your pain but also empowering you with the knowledge and tools to maintain optimal spinal health long after your treatment.
Consultation
We discuss your concerns, symptoms, and goals to understand your needs.
Assessment
We evaluate your condition to identify the root cause of the problem.
Treatment
We create a personalized plan to address your pain and improve mobility.
Follow-Up
We provide guidance to maintain results and prevent future issues.
ready to start your journey to recovery?
Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and take the first step towards a pain-free life.
Preventing Sciatica Flare-Ups
While you can’t always prevent sciatica, there are steps you can take to protect your back and reduce your risk:
- Maintain good posture when sitting, standing, and lifting
- Strengthen your core with exercises like planks and bird-dogs
- Try these acute sciatica exercises you can do at home to keep flare-ups under control
- Avoid prolonged sitting – take movement breaks every 30 minutes
Most patients experience significant improvement within 4-6 weeks of consistent treatment. However, the exact timeline depends on the severity of your condition and how long you've been experiencing symptoms. Dr. Patel will discuss your personalized treatment plan during your first visit.
Chiropractic adjustments are generally not painful. You may feel some pressure during the adjustment and mild soreness afterward, similar to what you might feel after exercise. Most patients find the treatments relieving rather than uncomfortable.
While chiropractic care addresses the underlying causes of sciatica, recurrence is possible without proper maintenance. Dr. Patel provides home exercises and lifestyle recommendations to help prevent future flare-ups. Periodic maintenance visits can also help keep your spine healthy.
No referral is needed. You can schedule an appointment directly with Brooklyn Chiropractic Care. Simply call (347) 625-1246 or use our online booking form.
Please bring any relevant medical records, imaging results (X-rays or MRIs) if available, a list of current medications, and your insurance card. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows for movement during the examination.