It’s a common condition we often see here at the practice—sciatica, which is characterized by pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down through the hips, buttocks, and each leg.
It typically occurs when a nerve in the lower spine becomes compressed, resulting in a “pinched nerve.” A pinched nerve can be caused by a herniated disc, bone spur, or spinal stenosis, which puts pressure on the nerve roots.
The Impact on Daily Life
Sciatica’s effects on daily life can be significant as patients often experience sharp, burning pain that can extend down one leg, as well as numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness. These symptoms can make everyday activities like walking, sitting, and sleeping challenging, if not painful. Chronic pain from sciatica can also greatly impact mental health, causing anxiety or depression.
Common Causes and the Role of Spinal Decompression
Herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, or even muscle spasms can all cause sciatica. Lifestyle factors, such as sitting for extended periods, poor posture, obesity, or improper lifting techniques, can also contribute to sciatica by putting excessive pressure on the lower spine.
An incredibly powerful tool we have to address sciatica is spinal decompression therapy.
“This non-invasive treatment targets the root cause of sciatica by gently stretching the spine to alleviate pressure on the affected discs and nerves. By creating negative pressure within the spinal discs, decompression helps to reposition herniated or bulging discs, allowing them to retract away from the nerves,” says Dr. Venn.
This process can relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and help promote natural healing.
What to Expect During Spinal Decompression Therapy
During spinal decompression therapy, the patient lies on a specialized table designed to gently stretch the spine in a controlled manner. The patient is comfortably secured, and the table uses computerized adjustments to apply traction, focusing on the specific areas of concern. Each session typically lasts around 15-20 minutes, and patients often find the experience relaxing, as the gentle stretching helps alleviate pressure on compressed nerves.
We always customize treatment plans for each patient and may require multiple sessions over several weeks to get the best possible results.
“Our goal is to progressively reduce pain, improve mobility, and help patients get back to their normal daily activities without discomfort,” emphasizes Dr. Venn.
Results Patients Have Experienced After Spinal Decompression Therapy
In our experience, many patients with sciatica have reported significant relief after undergoing spinal decompression therapy. They often notice a reduction in pain after just a few sessions, with continued improvement throughout the treatment course.
Many patients experience less numbness, improved mobility, and an overall increase in their quality of life. It’s important to note that while individual results vary, spinal decompression offers a safe, effective option for those looking for a non-surgical solution to sciatica.
Enhance Your Recovery With Lifestyle Changes and Exercises
We also recommend that patients make some helpful lifestyle changes and incorporate exercises that promote spinal health. In particular, core strengthening exercises, such as planks and bridges, can help stabilize the spine and reduce the likelihood of future nerve compression. Stretching the hamstrings and lower back can also provide relief by reducing tension in areas that contribute to sciatic nerve irritation.
Maintaining good posture throughout the day, avoiding prolonged sitting, and taking regular breaks to move around are important habits that can reduce stress on the spine. It’s also critical to maintain a healthy weight, which can reduce the overall pressure on the lower back. By combining these lifestyle adjustments with spinal decompression therapy, patients can enhance their recovery and reduce the likelihood of recurring sciatic pain.
Experience Lasting Relief
You don’t have to stay sidelined by sciatica. Contact Venn Chiropractic and Wellness Center today to book an appointment. We want to help you get relief and return to what you love.