At Haven Chiropractic & Sports Medicine in Palmer, AK, Dr. Joseph Sullivan provides effective care for people suffering from sciatica. Sciatica is a common pain that affects the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back through your legs. Chiropractic treatments are a safe and proven way to relieve this pain and help you move more comfortably.
How Can Chiropractic Care Help with Sciatica?
Chiropractors use hands-on techniques to address the root causes of your pain, like spinal misalignments, muscle tightness, or nerve pressure. Here’s how chiropractic care can help:
- Chiropractic Adjustments – Gentle adjustments to realign the spine and relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve.
- Myofascial Release – A hands-on technique that loosens tight muscles to reduce tension and pain in the lower back and legs.
- IASTM (Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization) – Specialized tools are used to break down scar tissue and improve mobility.
- Cupping Therapy – Suction cups are placed on the skin to relieve muscle tension and improve blood flow, reducing pain.
- Therapeutic Massage – Massage therapy relaxes tight muscles and eases sciatica discomfort.
- Rehab Exercise – Strengthening exercises to support your spine and improve your posture, helping prevent future sciatica flare-ups.
Sciatica Symptoms
- Pain in the lower back, thigh, or leg
- Tingling or numbness in the leg
- Weakness in the affected leg
- Difficulty moving or walking
- Pain that worsens when sitting or sneezing
Causes of Sciatica
- Herniated disc: When the cushioning disc between vertebrae slips out of place.
- Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on nerves.
- Piriformis syndrome: Tight muscles pressing on the sciatic nerve.
FAQ: Sciatica Treatment at Haven Chiropractic
1. Can a chiropractor fix sciatica?
Yes, chiropractic adjustments and therapies can help correct spinal misalignments and relieve nerve pressure, reducing sciatica pain.
2. How long does sciatica treatment take?
Treatment duration varies. Some patients feel relief in a few sessions, while others may need several weeks of care.
3. Is sciatica treatment painful?
Chiropractic treatments are generally gentle. You may feel mild discomfort during the adjustment, but it’s usually followed by pain relief.
4. Do I need surgery for sciatica?
In most cases, sciatica can be managed without surgery. Chiropractic care, physical therapy, and exercises are effective non-invasive treatments.
At Haven Chiropractic & Sports Medicine, our goal is to relieve your sciatica pain and help you regain your mobility. If you’re struggling with sciatica, give us a call at (907) 746-4263.