Sciatica is the name for a syndrome which is characterized by pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is the longest and largest nerve in the body. It is as thick as one of your fingers where it arises in the lower spine. It then travels from your lower back through your hip and buttock and down your leg where it divides into two branches at the knee. Each leg has its own sciatic nerve.

What are the symptoms of sciatica?
The pain from sciatica is felt along the sciatic nerve and can be felt deep in the buttock, with pain that travels down the back of the leg, sometimes to the foot. The pain can be accompanied by tingling, 'pins and needles', or numbness, and sometimes by muscular weakness in the leg. Sciatica is usually felt in only one leg at a time. Sometimes, a sensation like an electric shock can be felt along the nerve. The pain can range from a mild ache to incapacitating pain. Sciatica pain is often felt when you sneeze, cough, go to the toilet, or when you're sitting, and may be accompanied by lower back pain. If you lose control of your bladder or bowels or you have severe pain, weakness of your muscles, or numbness, seek medical attention immediately.

How is sciatica diagnosed?
Your Central City chiropractor will take a detailed history of your pain as well as medical history. Along with the results from a detailed physical examination involving the neuromusculoskeletal system they will be able to diagnosis the cause of your sciatica. Further investigations including Xray , CT or MRI may be required to get the full picture and a more definite diagnosis.

At Central City Chiropractors sciatica, is one of the more common symptoms we see, so let our experts assess and diagnosis the cause of your pain.

If you have any questions regarding leg pain or sciatica please call our Perth City Chiropractor   on 94868653 and a chiropractor will be happy to answer any queries you may have.