Sciatica is one of the most painful lower back conditions. Besides lower back pain, many other symptoms can make this condition quite debilitating. Some frequently asked questions about this condition may include:

• What are some of the symptoms of sciatica? 
• How long does it last? 
• Where can I turn for sciatica relief? 
• How can I find a sciatic chiropractor near me? 

We will answer all of these questions for our readers in this article. 

What Are Some of the Symptoms of Sciatica? 

Sciatica is a painful condition resulting from compression of the sciatica nerve. This frequently happens because it is the largest nerve in the body. It starts with nerve roots in the lower spinal cord and branches into two directions so that it can travel down both legs. As a result, the location and severity of the irritation or compression will cause varied symptoms from patient to patient. Here are some of the more common sciatica symptoms.

• Radiating pain – This is the hallmark sciatica symptom. Pain often begins in the lower back or hip. However, it will radiate down one side through the buttock and leg. It is less common for sciatica to affect both sides. 
• Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations – These are all common sensations when nerve compression occurs. 
• Weakness in the foot or leg on the affected side
• Bowel or bladder problems – This only occurs in very severe cases.

It is also important to note that some cases of sciatica are acute, and others are chronic. This is the primary factor when it comes to how long sciatica will last. So let us look at the difference between the two now.

How Long Does Sciatica Last? 

It depends on the type, severity, and underlying cause of sciatica. When sciatica is acute, symptoms come on suddenly, last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, and leave just as quickly. If the problem causing the acute sciatica was temporary and resolves, that may be the full extent of the problem. If the underlying issue is still in place, acute sciatica may recur several times per year. It may also evolve into chronic sciatica.

Chronic sciatica means that your symptoms exist most of the time. Even if you have brief periods of remission, you know that the symptoms will return. Doctors consider this to be a life-long or chronic condition, at least until you discover and resolve the underlying issue. 

While acute sciatica is often more severe than chronic sciatica, you don’t want to have to live with this condition for the rest of your life. The key is to discover what is causing the compression and to treat that specific problem. Where can you look for sciatica relief, especially if you are still searching for the cause?

Where Can I Turn for Sciatica Relief? 

For immediate relief from symptoms, a doctor may recommend some type of anti-inflammatory. Reducing swelling may help to take some of the pressure off the nerve. However, it is essential to note that most of these medications are not intended for long-term use. Therefore, chronic sciatica sufferers will need to find other ways to mitigate symptoms. Some lifestyle changes may offer a little relief. Some of these include:

• Use proper posture, especially when sitting.
• Exercise regularly and focus on building core strength in your abdomen and lower back.
• Lift with your legs, not your back.
• Wear the right shoes.
• Try an anti-inflammatory diet for long-term reduction of swelling without the side effects of medication.
• Maintain a healthy body weight – obesity is a sciatica risk factor and may make symptoms worse. 

With a little self-care, you may find that symptoms are bearable while you continue to search for the cause of your sciatica. In the meantime, you may also be exploring the Internet. If you type “sciatica chiropractor near me” into a search, you will find many practitioners in your area. However, finding an upper cervical chiropractor may be the best option. 

Why is a chiropractor who focuses on the top two bones in the neck effective in helping pain that occurs far lower on the spine? Where can you find a NUCCA certified practitioner? Let us conclude by helping you find the assistance you need. 

How Can I Find a Sciatica Chiropractor Near Me? 

If you are looking for a sciatica chiropractor, upper cervical chiropractic may be right for you. Spine health flows from the top down. The C1 and C2 vertebrae (the atlas and axis) support the skull. When these bones are out of correct alignment, the rest of the spine and the surrounding soft tissue will shift to get your head balanced again. When this occurs, the changes that take place in the lower spine may result in sciatica.

Correcting the misalignments in the lower back may offer temporary relief. However, if the underlying issue is the upper cervical misalignment, you can expect symptoms to recur and eventually to become chronic. Therefore, it is crucial to get a gentle and accurate realignment of the upper cervical spine. NUCCA accomplishes this through x-rays and precise calculations of the adjustment for each patient.

If you are dealing with chronic sciatica or recurring bouts of acute sciatica, use the directory feature on this website to find the NUCCA practitioner closest to you. This may be the natural remedy you have been searching to help get your lower back pain under control.