We’ve all heard the term sciatica but what does it actually mean? Sciatica is a broad based term that is actually given to pain that can arise in the back and travel down the back of your leg even all the way to your foot.1 Its name arises from the Sciatic nerve which is the nerve that supplies muscular function and sensation to this region of your leg. The Sciatic nerve is the largest single nerve in the body and is made up of individual nerve roots that start by branching out from the spine in the lower back and then combine to form the “sciatic nerve".
You may be surprised to know there can be many different issues that cause sciatica. They can range from simple muscular spasms right through to more serious causes such as a disc herniation and even possibly a tumour.2 This is why it is important for us as Chiropractors to assess your spine and lower body fully before any treatment is undertaken to ensure the appropriate path. Sometimes imaging may even be required to determine the nature of the cause and if a more serious cause is noted then follow up referral with your GP and/or a spinal specialist can be organised.
Most cases of sciatica tend to respond well with Chiropractic care but often we will prescribe certain stretches and exercises to help speed up your recovery, and to also help strengthen and prevent a recurrence of your painful episode.
Prevention
It's not always possible to prevent sciatica, and the condition may recur. The following can play a key role in protecting your back:
● Exercise regularly. To keep your back strong, pay special attention to your core muscles — the muscles in your abdomen and lower back that are essential for proper posture and alignment. Ask your chiropractor to recommend specific activities.
● Maintain proper posture when you sit. Choose a seat with good lower back support, armrests and a swivel base. Consider placing a pillow or rolled towel in the small of your back to maintain its normal curve. Keep your knees and hips level.
● Use good body mechanics. If you stand for long periods, rest one foot on a stool or small box from time to time. When you lift something heavy, let your lower extremities do the work. Move straight up and down. Keep your back straight and bend only at the knees. Hold the load close to your body. Avoid lifting and twisting simultaneously. Find a lifting partner if the object is heavy or awkward.
Below is a link to some simple lower back stretches that you can incorporate into your daily routine that can help you improve your spinal health and decrease chances of further sciatic pain episodes. https://www.healthline.com/health/lower-back-stretches
References:
1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sciatica/symptoms-causes/syc-20377435
2. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/sciatica
3. https://www.healthline.com/health/lower-back-stretches
4. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/sciatica
