Sciatica

Sciatica Symptoms

Sciatica is a symptom we see a lot with new patients at Powerhouse, it can be a source of intense pain and discomfort, significantly impacting your ability to perform daily activities. While conventional treatments often focus on temporary pain relief, they may not address the root causes of sciatica. At Powerhouse Chiropractic, we advocate for a natural approach to managing and alleviating sciatica, emphasising the importance of identifying and treating the underlying issues causing irritation to the sciatic nerve to achieve lasting relief.

What CAUSES SCIATICA

Sciatica is caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back at through the hips and down each leg. These nerve roots originate from L4 in the lumbar spine to S3 between the pelvis and sacrum in the SI joint (sacroiliac joint). Common causes of sciatica include:

  • Herniated Discs: When a disc in the spine bulges or ruptures, it can press on the sciatic nerve. Research indicates that about 90% of sciatica cases are caused by herniated discs.

  • Pelvic Subluxations: When the pelvis is tilted or rotated out of normal position it can directly cause irritation to the sciatic nerve or indirectly affect the positional relationship between the pelvis and the lumbar spine, this overtime can cause compression or over-tensioning the structures around the sciatic nerve ultimately causing weakness and dysfunction that can make the structures protecting the sciatic nerve vulnerable over time. Its interesting to note that a lot of herniated discs also involve a pelvic subluxation beneath and might be a reason why old disc injuries aren’t resolving.

  • Spinal Stenosis: A narrowing of the spinal canal and where the nerve roots exit the spine can compress the sciatic nerve, often due to misalignments called subluxations, postural problems, previous trauma causing degenerative change and arthritis, ergonomic stress causing postural changes over-time and much more.

  • Piriformis Syndrome: Tightness or spasms in the piriformis muscle, located in the buttocks, can irritate the sciatic nerve. Studies show that piriformis syndrome is a less common but notable cause of sciatica.

  • Injury: Trauma to the lower back or pelvis, such as from a fall or accident, can lead to sciatic nerve compression.

  • Poor Posture: Prolonged sitting, particularly with poor posture, can contribute to sciatica by putting pressure on the lower back. This can be related to your work, your couch at home, your car seat and any other seat you spend significant time in. Sleeping positions can also play a role. If you are sleeping on your stomach or twisted then this can also contribute to pressure and tension on the sciatic nerve.

  • Over-training and over-working: Can also lead to sciatica, dead-lifts, squats, HIIT training, cycling, Crossfit, bent-over rows, all involve a hip hinge and if done poorly, to fatigue or done repetitively without appropriate time for recovery can cause a deterioration of the supportive structures like the lumbar spine, pelvis and sacrum around the sciatic nerve over time. Overworking can be due to repetitive movements, bending, lifting and even just working over a bench that isn’t the right height.

Powerhouse Approaches to Relief

  • Ergonomic assessments and guidance on proper posture can help alleviate the strain on the lower back and reduce sciatica symptoms.

  • Misalignments in the spine can exacerbate sciatic nerve compression. Chiropractic adjustments help to realign the spine, reduce nerve irritation, and improve overall function of the boney and soft tissue structures that surround, protect and connect with the sciatic nerve. Research published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics indicates that chiropractic care can provide significant relief for people suffering with sciatica.

  • Specific exercises can help relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve, improve flexibility, and strengthen the muscles supporting the spine. Studies have shown that targeted physical therapy can reduce sciatica symptoms and improve function. For example, stretching exercises for the hamstrings and lower back can be particularly beneficial if done appropriately. Please note that if you have an L5 disc herniation - deep flexion of the lumbar spine to stretch the low back and hamstrings might be an aggravating factor and a different and personalised approach will be required at first.

  • If you are a side sleeper that twists through the body and pelvis when you sleep at night then you might be contributing to the problem more then you realise. Proper sleeping positions and contoured pillows like ones we stock at Powerhouse are a massive hit with our patients as they can feel the difference proper support makes at night when it comes to healing and recuperation.

  • Specific exercises can help relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve, improve flexibility, and strengthen the muscles supporting the spine. Studies have shown that targeted physical therapy can reduce sciatica symptoms and improve function. For example, stretching exercises for the hamstrings and lower back can be particularly beneficial if done appropriately. Please note that if you have an L5 disc herniation - deep flexion of the lumbar spine to stretch the low back and hamstrings might be an aggravating factor and a different and personalised approach will be required at first.

empowering you to heal

We believe in your body's natural ability to heal. By addressing the root causes of your sciatica, we aim to provide long-term relief and improve your overall quality of life. Our team is here to support you every step of the way, offering personalised care and empowering you to take control of your health.

If you’re struggling with sciatica, consider a natural, holistic approach. Schedule your "Discovery Exam" at Powerhouse Chiropractic today, and let us help you find lasting relief.