Sciatica leads to different kinds of pain, from a slow ache in the lower back to radiating sharp pain in the legs or a prickly feeling near the feet. This condition can be treated but not cured, as it is a set of symptoms and not a full diagnosis. Below, Ark-La-Tex Health Center in Texarkana, AR, shares four facts about sciatica to help you understand the causes, severity, diagnosis process and treatment options.

4 Sciatica Facts to Know

1. Causes

Often, sciatica occurs when a person has a herniated disk or, a spinal bone spur may put pressure on the nerves in the back. Sometimes spinal stenosis — or narrowing of the spine — occurs and has a similar effect.

2. Severity

Sciatica is painful in any form, but as it becomes increasingly severe, it can cause further issues. Problems with weakness of the legs or difficulty emptying the bladder and bowels, including full loss of control, can be signs of severe sciatica that may require surgery.

3. Diagnosis

To confirm sciatica, physicians assess patient reflexes to see what causes pain. You may do some physical stretches like squatting and then standing up or lifting your legs so the doctor can see how you react. If you have a bone spur, it may show up in an X-ray or on an MRI. Nerve compression may also be present in an EMG test or on a CT scan to provide further proof that you are experiencing sciatica. 

4. Treatment

Most people who have sciatica experience it on just one side of their body. They can work with a chiropractor to strengthen the muscles, improve flexibility, and limit pain overall. Anti-inflammatory drugs and muscle relaxants may also prove useful when prescribed by a physician. 

If you are experiencing pain on one side of your body that radiates from your spine, you may have sciatica. Speak with your doctor to schedule an appointment to address these concerns. Then, with a diagnosis in hand consider seeking chiropractic care to reduce your symptoms and improve mobility. Call Ark-La-Tex Health Center at (870) 773-7246, or visit the website to learn about chiropractic services to treat sciatica symptoms.