How to Treat Sciatica
If you suffer from sciatica it most likely started from a functional or mechanical problem in your spine. So the aim of any treatment should first be to restore or improve any incorrect or incomplete mobility or function and help reduce any secondary inflammation in the area and reduce any irritation of the nerves. Many people who experience sciatica can get better within a few weeks or months using a functional or mobility approach to treatment without the need for surgery.
Dr. Becker is a Chiropractor in Los Angeles and strives to eliminate the cause of sciatica and restore normal spinal motion and function to your spine, strengthen the surrounding muscles and balance the neurological control of the region. This is achieved by using specific spinal motion techniques and specific adjustments and rehabilitation exercises.
How Long Does It Take?
The healing process can take time and varies from person to person, often depending on the severity of your sciatica and the history of your complaint. However, in practice, Dr. Becker generally finds that most patients with sciatica get relatively immediate relief after their first chiropractic treatment. At the same time, it would also be helpful to reduce any aggravation or irritation by avoiding any prolonged activities including bending, lifting and prolonged sitting or walking. Proper and limited exercises and rest also tend to help. How active and compliant you are in your own treatment will obviously also influence your recovery time. If you are experiencing sciatic pain, it is important to achieve an accurate diagnosis prior to commencing any treatment. This is achieved through a thorough examination that allows your chiropractor to find the cause of your sciatica and recommend the best treatment for you.
Not Quite the Right Direction / Pain Medications
Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or stronger prescription medications are often used to help reduce the inflammation that is associated with the irritation of the sciatic nerve. While these drugs do not treat the spine or the movement or functioning of the spine, they can be somewhat effective at reducing or relieving sciatica pain in the short-term. When combined with effective treatments like spinal manipulation that aim to remove the cause, they can help provide some management of sciatic pain. Muscle relaxants or narcotic medications may also be prescribed for the short term (a few days and up to 2 weeks) to help control the symptoms while the cause of the problem is removed but surgery should be considered only as a last resort. If Dr. Becker has any doubts about the cause of your problems or whether he can help you, he will refer you to your doctor or a spinal surgeon for another opinion.
Discover How Chiropractic Care Can Help Treat Sciatica
Find out how you can help treat sciatica pain, why not make an appointment with Dr. Becker. Dr. Becker is a Chiropractor in West Los Angeles (West LA) and specializes in treating sciatica, lower back pain and slipped disc injuries. Dr. Becker is committed to relieving your pain using the principles of conservative chiropractic care, by finding and fixing the cause of your condition. Dr. Becker frequently sees patients from the surrounding neighborhoods in West Los Angeles (West LA) including Culver City, Century City and Beverly Hills. Please feel free to call with any questions or comments (310)277â8822.