If you've been feeling increased levels of pain in your lower back and legs, you may have sciatica. This is a common ailment of patients who do jobs that require heavy lifting or perform high levels of activity each day. Understand sciatica as well as the causes and symptoms when you visit Dr. Scott Shaw at Shaw Chiropractic Center in Richmond, VA.

Sciatica Causes

The sciatic nerve is the largest in the body, running from the spinal cord down both legs. When it becomes irritated, inflamed, or pinched, it can cause some of the worst and most debilitating pain for patients. Sciatic nerve damage is usually caused by one or more of the following:

• An injury caused by an accident (work or automobile).
• Frequent heavy lifting puts a lot of pressure on the back and spine.
• Spinal stenosis.
• Herniated disc.
• Pregnancy or difficult delivery of a newborn.
• The general aging of the tissues and nerves.

Common Symptoms of Sciatica

The pain from sciatica usually radiates through the legs and thighs but can also be felt in the lower back and buttocks. Many patients describe it as a shocking, stabbing, and sudden pain that comes in waves and can last for several weeks. It also can put the patient at risk for additional health issues and can become chronic (when lasting longer than six weeks) if it is not treated.

Ways to Treat Sciatica

Your Richmond, VA, chiropractor can use non-surgical methods to help you relieve sciatica pain. The most common treatment is called a spinal adjustment, which may help relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve. This procedure combined with ice or heat therapy and anti-inflammatory pain medications can provide the relief you need. Massage therapy, targeted for the lower back, can also help.

A Chiropractic Solution to Lower Back and Leg Pain

Sciatica pain can be managed and relieved with chiropractic care from a qualified practitioner. Get help for sciatica from Dr. Scott Shaw at Shaw Chiropractic Center in Richmond, VA, by calling (804) 741-3068.