Here at Mapleview Chiropractic Centre, one of the most common ailments we treat is back pain. Back pain is incredibly common, and it can take a number of forms, with one of the most common of those forms being sciatica.
- What is Sciatica? Sciatica takes its name from the sciatic nerve, which starts in the gluteal area and runs down the legs. This nerve is actually made up of five different nerve roots, two from the lumbar spine (the small of the back) and three from the sacrum (the final part of the spine, where it connects to the pelvis). The term sciatica is used to describe any pain that originates in the lower back and radiates down the legs, as this pain occurs when these nerves become damaged, irritated, or pinched.
- Symptoms of Sciatica. Sciatica is typically characterized by mild to severe pain at any point along the sciatic nerve, from the lower back to the hips and down the legs. In addition, it can also cause muscle weakness in the legs, or feelings of “pins and needles” or numbness in the legs and feet.
- Treating Sciatica. If you are experiencing sciatica, there are a number of steps you can take, but one of the most effective is to see a chiropractor for treatment. Our experienced chiropractors know how to adjust the spine to alleviate sciatica pain and help prevent it from coming back.