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In this video, Jenay Zelaya, DC discusses common conditions typically associated with sciatica and sciatic-like pain. She also reviews three simple exercises you can do to help relieve sciatic pain.
Sciatica is a symptom of an underlying medical condition—it is not a medical diagnosis in and of itself. The term sciatica describes the symptom of nerve pain that radiates down the leg. You may also experience the following symptoms:
The sciatic nerve is the largest and longest nerve in the body—running from the lower back, through the buttock, and splitting to run down the back of the legs. It is responsible for controlling muscle movement in the thigh and other parts of the leg as well. An condition that causes inflammation or irritation to the sciatic nerve can result in pain to the area.
Common conditions resulting in sciatic pain include a herniated disc, lumbar spinal stenosis, piriformis syndrome, or an injury to the lower back that puts pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Sciatica is the name given to pain caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve. Anything that irritates the sciatic nerve can cause pain, ranging from mild to severe. Sciatica is usually caused by a compressed or pinched nerve in the lower spine.
Common causes of sciatica can include a herniated disk and a narrowing of the spine canal (called spinal stenosis). Everyday movement and injury also contribute to conditions that are the underlying causes of sciatica.
Episodes of sciatic pain tend to occur when excess pressure is placed on tight or imbalanced piriformis or hamstring muscles. Sciatica flare-ups can have a number of causes, including:
Sciatic-like pain is very common problem with a multitude of causes. Proper diagnosis can be difficult and — given the limited time many providers have to spend with each patient —usually requires imaging and other costly diagnostic tests. Treatment tends to focus more on affecting the symptoms and not treating the actual condition. Treatment options usually involve rest/limited activity, medications for pain relief, epidural steroid injections, and weeks of therapy.
Because sciatica can be a symptom of several different underlying problems, it’s important to seek care from a skilled musculoskeletal provider. Airrosti providers can help diagnose your injury and identify the specific cause of your symptoms. Your provider will then recommend an individualized treatment plan to eliminate the true source of your pain and prevent future recurrence.
If you’re suffering from sciatic-like pain, schedule your Airrosti appointment today.
Reviewed by Casey Crisp, Doctor of Chiropractic
Disclaimer: Always consult with your doctor before starting any exercise program. If you experience any numbness, tingling or reproduction of your symptoms, please contact your doctor.
Let me start by giving so much praise and kudos to this young chiropractor. She was the only one out of other places and doctors that I had gone to who was able to diagnose my issue and help resolve it. I had been in constant pain in my hips and legs and I was to a point where I could not sleep because the pain in my lower back and glutes would constantly wake me up at night. It got to the point that one side of my body was lower than the other side because I have a compensating due to the pain in my lower right leg and hip. I was referred to Airrosti thru my provider and when I talked extensively to Dr. Moore and she assessed the situation. She figured out that I had issues with my glutes and that my muscles were so tight and compressed...+ show more that it had been causing me excruciating pain. Omg !!! she did therapy on the painful area and right after she focused on my problem areas. I was able to walk straight without walking as though I was in pain or as an old person. I was able to sleep on my back and had no pain in my legs. I was able to walk on my right leg without my sciatic nerve or the leg being on fire or shooting..pain from sitting or walking on it too much. omg, I am so happy for 3 days I am walking straight. Sleeping so good at night. No pain and this problem have been going on for over a year and no one could figure it out, but Dr . Moore did. I am so overjoyed by being able to just walk straight again and I am referring all my friends and family to Airrosti but especially to this amazing chiropractor by the name of Jade Moore. I am truly blown away that young doctor is so dedicated to really helping and really understanding and taking care of their patients. She gave me tools and exercises to do to keep me correct. I am so ecstatic with joy.!! Even my husband and noticed a difference and he said that I was walking like my old self and not complaining of pain and I told him that is due to Dr. Jade Moore at Airrosti. She is a keeper and I will be referring all of my friends, family, and colleges to her and Airrosti. Thank you so much again, doctor Moore for finding the solution when no one else could. I have lupus, sarcoidosis, thyroid issue, and had a previous sciatic issue, and out of all that she resolved the issue. I don't know how to thank you again, Dr. Moore. I was actually crying with tears of joy!!!!! Please Airrosti keep this magnificent doctor!!!!
by Janet Lockley