Sciatica Treatment in Round Rock
More than just lower back pain, sciatica is a condition that causes pain to radiate down the leg due to nerve compression or irritation. While some people experience both lower back pain and sciatica, others may only feel discomfort in their leg. Understanding the underlying cause is key to effective treatment and long-term relief.
What Causes Sciatica?
Sciatic pain is triggered by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, which extends from the lower back down to the feet. The most common causes include:
- Herniated or bulging discs – When a disc presses against a nerve root, it can cause pain that radiates down the leg.
- Piriformis syndrome – Tightness in the piriformis muscle, located near the buttocks, can put pressure on the sciatic nerve.
- Spinal misalignment – When the spine is not functioning properly, it can lead to nerve irritation and chronic discomfort.
- Sedentary lifestyle – Prolonged sitting, especially with poor posture, can increase pressure on the spine and lead to nerve compression.
Why It Feels Worse in the Morning
Many people with sciatica notice their pain is more intense in the morning. This happens because, while lying down, pressure is relieved from the discs in the lower back, allowing them to absorb fluid and swell overnight. When standing up, the sudden shift in pressure can irritate the nerve, causing sharp pain that travels down the leg. Gentle morning activity, such as light walking or stretching, can help reduce this discomfort.
How Chiropractic Care Offers Relief
Over the years, Dr. Bolden Harris has helped thousands of patients with low back pain and sciatica-type symptoms. “If there’s a bone that’s out of alignment and that’s causing swelling on a nerve root—by adjusting it, you get the pressure off that nerve root, and that will reduce the pressure that’s causing the pain and the symptoms,” says Dr. Harris.
In cases of piriformis syndrome, adjustments combined with targeted stretches can help release muscle tension and relieve nerve compression.
Mistakes That Can Make Sciatica Worse
Ignoring sciatica symptoms or masking them with temporary solutions can lead to chronic issues. The biggest mistake people make is relying on painkillers or steroid injections without addressing the underlying problem. Prolonged use of these treatments without getting corrective care can lead to worsening spinal function over time.
Preventing Sciatica from Returning
While sciatica can be recurring, the good news is taking proactive steps can significantly reduce flare-ups. Here are some helpful prevention strategies:
- Maintain regular chiropractic adjustments to ensure proper spinal alignment.
- Strengthen the core muscles to support the lower back.
- Avoid prolonged sitting and ensure proper ergonomic support.
- Stay active with low-impact exercises like walking.
- Use ice therapy when needed to reduce inflammation and nerve irritation.
Schedule an Appointment
Contact Family Wellness at Teravista today to book an appointment with Dr. Harris for sciatica pain chiropractic and start feeling better.
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