Chiropractors in Las Vegas, Nevada frequently treat individuals suffering from sciatica, a condition that consists of pain radiating from the lower back region down the leg. Sciatica often inhibits many individuals from living a normal life, as it decreases mobility.
What Causes Sciatica?
Sciatica can be caused by one of many conditions. Often, an underlying problem causes the sciatic nerve to be pinched, resulting in the pain of sciatica. Other times, sciatica can be caused by conditions seemingly unrelated. Examples of these conditions include: spinal misalignment, diabetes, tumors, pregnancy and slipped disks. Sciatica itself is not a condition. Instead, sciatica is a symptom of an underlying condition.
Identifying the Cause of Sciatica
Doctors of chiropractic in Nevada begin the treatment of sciatica by determining the underlying cause of sciatica. In order to do this, a full medical history is evaluated. It is vital that patients inform their chiropractor of any and all medical conditions, including previous diagnosis that were made by a medical doctor. In addition to discussing the patient’s medical history, chiropractors will perform an examination of the spine. Tests such as ultrasounds or X-rays will be performed to determine if there are subluxations of the spine. Finally, chiropractors will also take into consideration the overall spinal health of the patient, such as incorrect posture.
Treatment Plans for Sciatica
Treatment plans that are developed by Las Vegas chiropractors are often individualized. After a chiropractor determines the cause of sciatica, he or she will then develop a treatment plan that is appropriate to treat the underlying condition that is causing sciatica. Subluxations may be treated with spinal adjustments, or manipulations. Other common treatments include the use of a TENS machine. A chiropractor will determine the best type of treatment for the condition that is causing sciatic nerve pain.
At Home Treatments
A chiropractor may request that a patient perform additional therapeutic exercises or treatments at home to assist the patient in healing more quickly. Specific exercises may be used to aid in curing subluxations and promoting overall spinal health. Therapies, such as cold therapy, may also be performed at home to speed up the healing process. Your chiropractor can inform you on whether it is appropriate to use cold therapy, such as an ice pack, or heat therapy, such as a heating pad. Chiropractors recommend these treatments after determining the most appropriate treatment plan for the patient.
Lifestyle Changes
Doctors of chiropractic care located in Las Vegas, Nevada often receive additional training regarding nutrition and the musculoskeletal system. Chiropractors may discuss lifestyle changes with patients in an effort to prevent further discomfort due to sciatica.
Sciatica can frequently cause severe pain down the sciatic nerve, hence the name sciatica. This single symptom has the potential to worsen over time, creating a quality of life that is less than satisfactory for patients. Fortunately, sciatica is treatable, and often curable, without the use of prescription medications that can cause unpleasant side effects.
Schedule an appointment with a local chiropractor today for a consultation to see how chiropractic care may be able to benefit you.