Sciatica is a term used to describe pain that travels from your buttock or lower back down the leg. The term comes from the sciatic nerve. Sciatica may occur when nerves in the lower back are irritated or compressed. The sciatic nerve is a bundle of nerves that travels from your lower back, through your buttock and down the leg before branching off to supply different areas of your leg.
Sciatica can sometimes be associated with conditions such as a disc bulge or herniation, changes to the bones or joints of the spine, muscle tension, or other sources of irritation around the nerves. This pain may feel burning, electric, or sharp and can be accompanied by numbness or tingling.
A proper assessment is important to help determine the likely cause of your symptoms and appropriate next steps for care. Some forms of leg pain, numbness, or tingling can have different causes such as muscle injury, reduced blood flow or other nerve injuries or irritation. Since different causes may require different approaches to care, it is important to identify what may be contributing to your symptoms.
A chiropractor can assess your condition and determine if chiropractic care is suitable for you. If your symptoms are outside the scope of chiropractic care, your chiropractor can recommend an appropriate referral.
When to seek immediate medical attention
Some forms of leg pain, weakness, or numbness may warrant immediate medical attention. Signs include new urinary retention or difficulty urinating, loss of bowel or bladder control, significant loss of muscle function, or loss of sensation around the genitals or inner thighs. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
Talk to a chiropractor in Etobicoke
Chiropractic on Royal York is at 1527 Royal York Rd. in Etobicoke. If leg pain is limiting what you can do, book an assessment online with Dr. Alex or call the clinic at (416)-248-4222.
New to chiropractic? What to expect at your first appointment covers the appointment step by step. You can also read more about our Etobicoke clinic.
This article is general information about sciatica. It is not a substitute for an assessment, diagnosis, or treatment advice for your own situation.