Sciatica is known for pain, numbness, or a tingling sensation that is caused by an irritation of the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is the longest and widest nerve in the body. It is formed by the nerve roots that come out of the spinal cord in the lower part of the back. It runs through the buttocks and branches off into the back of each leg and on into the foot.
The pain of sciatica is felt along the nerve’s pathway. It can be felt anywhere along this nerve—deep in the buttock, down the back of the leg (usually only one leg is affected), and sometimes as far down as the foot. One may have a pins and needles type feeling, weakness in the muscles of the leg, numbness, lower back pain, and an electric shock feeling along the nerve. Pain has been described as ranging from a moderate ache to one that is severe in nature. Sitting for long periods, coughing or sneezing, and standing can make the pain worse. It is important to seek medical attention if bowel and bladder control is compromised or if a person has numbness and weakened muscles.
This last symptom may be surprising. How can a head injury affect the lower back? Well, when an injury occurs to the C1 vertebra (the top bone of the neck) the body compensates by changing the person’s posture. This compounds the stress on the neck and discs of the lower back. Injury, herniation, and bulges are the end result all culminating in sciatica.
As upper cervical chiropractors, we understand how to help the spine recover and begin to heal itself. If the underlying cause of sciatica is a misalignment in the upper neck, we will work with our patients to correct this. Once corrected, sciatica may be a thing of the past.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Perkins, call 248-780-8864 or just click the button below area
If you are outside of the local area you can find an Upper Cervical Doctor near you at www.uppercervicalawareness.com.
Dr. Perkins grew up in Novi, Michigan and attended Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa. He received his Doctorate Magna Cum Laude with a focus on Upper Cervical Chiropractic care. Chris is well known in the community for his public speaking and holds a number of professional certifications. We are proud to say that Dr. Perkins and Perkins Family Wellness has been recognized by Hour Magazine as one of the Top Chiropractors in Metro Detroit for 3 years in row.
