Sciatica is a common problem, but it’s not the name of a disease. Instead, it’s a term for describing the symptoms of an impingement of the sciatic nerves, which is something that could develop for several reasons. But while sciatica is serious and unpleasant, it may be possible to relieve without the use of surgery or medication. At the Carrollton chiropractic office of Dr. Peter Lazarnick (Dr. Pete), we offer a wide variety of complementary therapies that not only reduce pain, but which help situate the body to fully utilize its natural healing abilities.
The sciatic nerves emerge from the lumbar vertebrae and the sacrum in the lower back and travel, one per leg, into the feet. Each sciatic nerve has five roots which bundle together, and the roots are vulnerable to compression. The lumbar vertebrae have to bear a great deal of weight, and as a person ages, the spongy discs between the vertebrae gradually lose fluid. As the discs degenerate, they release inflammatory chemicals that can cause nearby muscles and tendons to swell and compress the sciatic nerve roots. The discs may also bulge outward and directly cause impingements.
The roots are not the only place the sciatic nerves may be compressed. Muscles in the pelvic region, such as the piriformis, can also swell, as can the sacroiliac joints that connect the pelvis to the spinal column. Swelling in the leg muscles and instability of the knee joint may also pressure the nerve. We offer several services to reduce inflammation, including electric muscle stimulation, low level laser, and heat therapy. Chiropractic adjustments can relieve nerve root impingement, and adjustments can also be performed on joints of the limbs. But for sustained health, a patient will have to stay active, and build up muscles that are strong enough to share the load on the spine and that won’t fray as easily.
Dr. Peter Lazarnick is located at 486 Bankhead Hwy, Carrollton, Georgia, 30117. To schedule an appointment, call 770-832-2226 or visit www.askdrpete.com.