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Writer's pictureDr. Ross Hanson

Sciatica Solutions...

Updated: Mar 19

The one-two punch to knock out Sciatica pain


Introduction


Sciatica is a common and painful condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down through the buttocks and into the legs, becomes irritated or compressed.


This can lead to symptoms such as sharp, shooting pain, numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness in the affected leg. While self care such as stretching and icing can be effective for mild cases, this blog post will focus on the effectiveness of chiropractic care and laser therapy in managing and alleviating sciatica symptoms that are moderate and severe.


Anatomy of the Sciatic Nerve
Sciatic Nerve

Through treating hundreds of people with Sciatica over the years I have found an effective way to deal with Sciatica is to use a combined approach of Chiropractic techniques and Laser Therapy focusing on both the Low back and the hip musculature.


Chiropractic Care for Sciatica


Chiropractic care is a non-invasive and drug-free approach to treating sciatica. Chiropractors are trained to assess the spine and nervous system to identify misalignments and subluxations that may be contributing to sciatic nerve irritation. Here's how chiropractic care can be effective in managing sciatica:

  1. Spinal Adjustment: Chiropractors use spinal adjustments or manipulations to realign the spine and alleviate pressure on the sciatic nerve. This can help improve nerve function and reduce pain.

  2. Improved Mobility: Chiropractic adjustments can increase the range of motion in the spine and the affected leg, reducing muscle tension and promoting healing.

  3. Individualized Care: Tailoring treatments to each patient's specific needs, taking into account factors such as the underlying cause of sciatica and the patient's overall health its the key.

  4. Drug-Free Approach: Chiropractic care focuses on natural healing, avoiding the need for pharmaceuticals, which may have side effects.


Research Supporting Chiropractic Care for Sciatica


Several studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of chiropractic care in treating sciatica. A study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics in 2010 found that spinal manipulation performed by chiropractors was more effective than placebo treatment in reducing sciatic pain and improving function.


Laser Therapy for Sciatica


Laser therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or cold laser therapy, is another non-invasive and drug-free treatment option for sciatica. It involves the use of low-level lasers or light-emitting diodes to stimulate cellular repair and reduce inflammation. Here's how laser therapy can be effective in managing sciatica:

  1. Reduced Inflammation: Laser therapy helps decrease inflammation around the sciatic nerve, which can alleviate pain and discomfort.

  2. Improved Blood Flow: Laser therapy increases blood flow to the affected area, promoting the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to damaged tissues and supporting the body's natural healing process.

  3. Pain Relief: Many patients report significant pain relief after laser therapy sessions, making it a valuable tool in managing sciatica symptoms.

Research Supporting Laser Therapy for Sciatica


Scientific studies have also shown promising results for the use of laser therapy in treating sciatica. A study published in the journal Lasers in Medical Science in 2016 concluded that laser therapy was effective in reducing pain and improving functional outcomes in patients with chronic lumbar radiculopathy, a condition often associated with sciatica.



Conclusion


Sciatica can be a debilitating condition, but there are effective, non-invasive treatment options available. The combo approach of Chiropractic care and laser therapy have both been very effective in my experience in managing and alleviating sciatica symptoms, offering patients the opportunity to find relief without resorting to surgery or pharmaceuticals.


It's important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before pursuing any treatment for sciatica to determine the most suitable approach based on your individual circumstances. If you'd like to schedule a consult and evaluation for your Sciatica pain simply click here or call

651-430-3229.





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