Sciatica Specialist

What is sciatica?

Sciatica is more a symptom than a condition and describes the pain that’s caused when the sciatic nerve becomes irritated or inflamed. It manifests in a variety of symptoms, including:

• Radiating pain on one side of the buttocks or leg
• Pain that gets worse with sitting
• Pain that’s burning, tingling, radiating, or sharp
• Numbness or weakness in the leg, foot, or toes
• Difficulting walking or standing up

What causes sciatica?

Sciatica occurs when your sciatic nerve becomes compressed in your lower back. The largest nerve in your body, the sciatic nerve exits your spinal column at your lower back, reaches across each buttock, and travels down both legs.

When you have sciatica, the sciatic nerve is irritated or compressed by, most commonly, a herniated disc or bone spur. Although anyone can develop sciatica, it typically occurs in those who:

• Are overweight
• Are pregnant
• Repeatedly twist, lift, or reach for work
• Have a sedentary lifestyle
• Have diabetes

Can you prevent sciatica?

If you’re at risk for developing sciatica, you can prevent it from developing. Dr. Foltz recommends engaging in regular exercise and focusing on core and lower back strength. He also suggests improving your posture, especially if you sit or stand for prolonged periods of time.

He may also give you ways to improve your workplace ergonomics, including:

• Resting your feet flat on a stool or box
• Moving straight up and down
• Lifting with your legs instead of your back
• Carrying heavy objects close to your body
• Avoiding lifting and twisting at the same time

How is sciatica treated?

To treat sciatica, Dr. Foltz may use chiropractic manipulations and adjustments to realign the spine and take pressure off your sciatic nerve. He may give you therapeutic exercises to support the spine and reduce your risk of future bouts of sciatica.

Dr. Foltz often recommends stretching to reduce sciatica flare ups and keep your muscles and spine strong and flexible.

To manage pain, Dr. Foltz can perform trigger point therapy. Using his hands or a massager, he manipulates the deep tissues that get stiff and sore. He may ask that you use a foam roller or tennis ball to massage the area in between appointments.

If you have tingling, burning pain in one leg, it’s time to seek help for your sciatica. Call Pittsburgh Physical Medicine and Chiropractic today to schedule your appointment or book online.