Risk Factors for Sciatica

Sciatica is an inflammation of the sciatic nerve, the largest and longest nerve in the body (extending from the lower back down to the foot). It is about the same size as the thumb in the thickest area, and when there is some nerve damage, the pain is intense. Anyone can get sciatica, but some people are more at risk. Our team at Skocik Chiropractic in Harrisburg would like to take a closer look at sciatica.

Common Risk Factors for Sciatica

• Age: Sciatica is usually linked to people who have bone spurs or a herniated disc. People between the ages of 20 and 50 tend to be more exposed and may need sciatica pain management treatment, especially when the pain is intolerable.
• Obesity: People who are overweight tend to exert a lot of stress on the spine. This may cause the disc to shift and, in the process, affect the sciatic nerve. The excess weight also makes healing from sciatic pain difficult.
• Occupations that Require Heavy Lifting: People who carry heavy loads on their backs can also twist their backs and damage the sciatica nerve. Truck drivers and other long-distance drivers are also at risk of developing herniated disks.
• Sitting for Extended Periods: People who sit for prolonged periods are also at risk and may need sciatica pain management treatment. They are likely to develop herniated discs, similar to long-distance drivers, because of the strain on the lower back and spine.
• Diabetes: One of the side effects that people with diabetes experience is nerve damage. This is a result of the body’s inability to efficiently utilize blood glucose. One of the nerves that are often affected is the sciatica nerve.

Sciatica Pain Management And Treatment

Some of the signs of sciatica include poor bladder control, loss of feeling along the leg, and loss of bowel movement. The affected leg may also show signs of weakness. A chiropractor in Harrisburg, PA will apply spinal manipulation to restore the herniated disc and relieve the pressure on the sciatic nerve. The disc adjustment will also improve spinal movement.

In cases where the spinal discs have suffered wear and tear, the chiropractor may opt for spinal decompression targeting the sciatica nerve. Back pain chiropractic care also includes exercises, such as yoga, to stretch the spine and relieve muscle tightness.

Book Effective Sciatica Chiropractic Care in Harrisburg, PA

Sciatica pain is one that you cannot miss. It is sharp and so intense. The best solution is to visit a chiropractor near you. We serve the Harrisburg area and will help relieve the pain as fast and in the best way possible. Call Skocik Chiropractic today and receive expert chiropractic care for back pain.