Chiropractic Care for Sciatica: Relief Without Surgery

If you suffer from numbness or pain in the legs, it may be because you are experiencing sciatica. This condition occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back and down the legs, comes under pressure. The pressure itself may be the result of an injury or issues with the back. In some cases, surgery is needed to resolve sciatica. However, chiropractic care may provide relief without the need to use invasive treatment methods. Should you and your loved ones live near Florissant MO, and need assistance with sciatica, come see Dr. Jeffrey Stark at the Back & Neck Care Center of North County.

Why Sciatica is a Major Risk

At first, numbness in the legs may seem like a minor nuisance. However, sciatica can progress to become very painful. Nerve dysfunction may also cause tingling. Symptoms may be worse when you bend down or lift your leg, or if you move unexpectedly, such as when you sneeze.

In advanced cases, sciatica can cause muscle weakness and loss of bowel and bladder control. Owing to these risks, seeking sciatica treatment is a necessity for residents of Florissant, MO.

Surgery Vs Non-Invasive Care for Sciatica

Of course, if surgery is necessary, then it should be undertaken. But unfortunately, it is a relatively high-risk procedure, and even if there are no complications, the road to recovery can be long. Many people suffer from soreness after surgery and some end up experiencing infections. 

However, surgery may not be needed, especially when cases of sciatica are caught early on. Chiropractors can use a variety of techniques to reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve and give it the opportunity to heal. Popular treatments include chiropractic adjustments, in which the spine is moved into better alignment, and massage therapy, which can reduce muscle strain and inflammation.

Spinal decompression can also be a great non-surgical way to address sciatica. This technique involves using advanced tools and computer software to slowly stretch out the spine, allowing herniated discs to return to their healthy positions. Electrical muscle stimulation and therapeutic ultrasound are other ways to stimulate soft tissue repair that could make surgery unnecessary. Do you live in or near Florissant MO, and need help with sciatica? Get in touch with Dr. Stark at the Back & Neck Care Center of North County by calling (314) 838-2220.