Know the Signs of Sciatica

Are you aware that the lifetime risk of developing lower back pain is as high as 80%, yet most cases are not associated with complications like sciatica? According to latest estimates, the prevalence of sciatica is approximately 5% in general population with most cases reported in individuals between 30 and 50 years.

What are some common signs and symptoms of sciatica?

Sciatica is not just an occasional pain that you may experience after a long walk or moderate exertion. Sciatica is caused by an impingement of the sciatic nerve as a result of radiculopathy (spinal disc herniation or disc prolapse).

Here are some common signs and symptoms that may help in identifying sciatica.

• Pain in the buttocks, hips, and legs is invariably the most common symptom of sciatica. The intensity and character of pain symptoms vary considerably; some individuals experience mild pain while others report sharp, stabbing pain with burning sensation and unbearable discomfort.


• Sometimes people with sciatica feel electric shock or jolt like sensation. The pain gets worse with upper respiratory viral illnesses.


• Triggers that may induce an attack of sciatica include prolonged sitting or inactivity.


• Most cases of sciatica are unilateral (involve one limb only)


• Associated symptoms of sciatica include tingling, weakness, and numbness in affected foot or leg.

How to Manage Sciatica?

Normal day-to-day activities help in easing pain; however, it is recommended to avoid triggers that may induce sciatica pain. Prolonged inactivity can make the sciatica signs and symptoms worse.

Chiropractic care is also very helpful in the long term as well as acute management of sciatica. Depew chiropractor, Dr. William Palmer can provide advice of lifestyle modification for the management of acute symptoms; such as:

• Chiropractic spinal adjustments to ease pressure on the irritated nerve and promote blood flow to the affected region


• Placing cold packs on affected area for 20 minutes helps in easing pain


• Apply hot compresses to induce soothing relief from pain and swelling.


• Stretching exercises of lower back that helps in relieving sciatica and compression of nerve root.


• Tips to improve the quality of life; such as occupational advice


• Nutritional counseling


• Soft-tissue therapies to ease muscle tension

Depew chiropractor Dr. William Palmer individually assesses every patient to formulate an individualized treatment plan to adequately address the issue.