Conditions Treated

Sciatica is a condition that affects many people today. It typically manifests as pain in the lower back or buttocks that radiates down to the legs or feet. This pain can be felt in one or both legs and is often difficult to describe. Patients have also found that the pain can change in frequency or intensity ranging from mild to severe and can be debilitating at times. Patients have reported various sensations related to sciatica pain including pins and needles while at other times it may be described as dull, or even like electric shocks.

The discomfort that sciatica patients experience often causes them to be willing to try anything to alleviate the condition. Understanding a few things about sciatica may help you decide what is best for you.
 

What Causes Sciatica?

Sciatica is understood as a compression of the sciatic nerve. This compression can occur as the sciatic nerve leaves the spinal column and travels down to the legs and there are many possible causes of sciatica that vary in their severity.

• Subluxations – subluxations occur when the vertebrae in the spine are misaligned. These misalignments can cause restrictions or pressure on different nerves. Subluxations on the sciatic nerve are a common occurrence for many patients.

• Herniated or bulging discs – The padding or discs between the vertebrae can be damaged or deformed which can create issues with the sciatic nerve resulting in sciatica.

• Pregnancy – The drastic changes that occur to a woman’s body during pregnancy can create issues along the pelvis and spinal column. Some of these issues may cause a problem with the sciatic nerve.

• Tumors – A potentially severe issue occurs when a tumor grows in or along the spinal column. One of the first signs of tumor growth in your spine may be a change in sensation that is caused by the tumor placing pressure against your nerves. Your chiropractor can help diagnose the cause of your discomfort and ensure that you get the appropriate treatment.

• Piriformis syndrome – The sciatic nerve travels underneath the piriformis muscle which can be damaged in slips or falls. If the muscle experiences a strain or tightness, it may affect the ability of the sciatic nerve to function. Cramping or twitching of this muscle can also trigger pain associated with sciatica.
   

Diagnosing Sciatica

As you have just read, sciatica can be caused by a wide range of issues. Several concerns may extend beyond your discomfort when considering an appropriate diagnosis. Any time that your nerves are affected, there is a range of potential causes that should be thoroughly investigated in order to receive a proper diagnosis.

If your issue isn't properly diagnosed, the subsequent treatment may be ineffective. This could lead to continued pain and frustration on your part. Be sure to work with a licensed chiropractor to receive the best care possible.
 

Using Chiropractic Care to Treat Sciatica

If you have worked through a diagnosis with your chiropractor and decided that chiropractic care is the best option for you, then you can begin your treatment plan immediately. You should make sure to ask any questions
you may have about your plan and then adjust as needed. Your chiropractor will likely use several different options in the treatment of your sciatica.

• Ice or Cold Therapy – These methods use temperature cooling to reduce any inflammation that may be contributing to your sciatica.

• Ultrasound – Ultrasound produces radio waves that result in a gentle massaging sensation. This helps to stimulate the muscles and nerves in order to reduce your sciatica pain.

• Electrotherapy – This therapy uses gentle electric pulses to stimulate and heal the muscles around the joints.

• Spinal Manipulation – Your chiropractor may also help to align the vertebrae in your spine to relieve pinching or pressure on the sciatic nerve. You may experience some cracking in the spine as the chiropractor releases gases from the spinal column and reduces overall pressure.
   

Overview

If you are experiencing sciatica pain, your first step should be to meet with a licensed chiropractor to receive the proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. You should leave with a better understanding of what type of results you should expect and how long your treatment will last. Chiropractic care for your sciatica offers some of the safest and simplest treatments possible to produce the most significant positive outcomes for you and your health.

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a brain injury resulting from a sudden blow or impact on your head, causing damage to your brain. The damage can be mild or severe. It can significantly impact your physical, cognitive, and emotional health. 

Causes of TBI

TBI causes range from falls to sports-related injuries, car accidents, and violent assaults. The main causes of TBI are motor vehicle accidents and falls. Children, elderly adults, and military personnel can suffer from TBI.

Symptoms of TBI

TBI symptoms can include the following:
 

• Headaches

• Loss of consciousness

• Loss of balance

• Dizziness

• Convulsions or seizures

• Nausea or vomiting

• Sensory changes, such as ringing in the ears or blurred vision

• Fatigue or drowsiness

• Disorientation or confusion

• Mood changes

• Disorientation or confusion

Diagnosing TBI

Diagnosing TBI can be challenging as its symptoms may not appear immediately after the injury. The diagnosis may involve a physical examination and a neurological evaluation. It also entails imaging tests, such as a CT scan or MRI. A thorough examination evaluation is necessary to determine the severity of the injury. It assists in developing an appropriate treatment plan.

TBI Treatment Options

The treatment options for TBI depend on the severity or harshness of the injury. TBI may require only over-the-counter pain relievers and rest. More extreme cases may require surgery, hospitalization, or rehabilitation. 

Your doctor may prescribe medications such as antidepressants or pain relievers to manage your symptoms. A referral for surgery may be necessary if you have a significant brain injury. Surgery will relieve pressure on your brain or remove blood clots.

Rehabilitation can help people with TBI to regain their lost skills or learn new ones. It may involve physical, occupational, and speech therapy. Counseling can help a person with TBI cope with the emotional and physical effects of the injury. It may include individual therapy, family therapy, or support groups.

Preventing TBI

TBI prevention involves reducing the chances of accidents or injuries leading to TBI. Wearing helmets and seatbelts can reduce the risk of head injuries in motorcycles or car accidents. Avoiding alcohol and drugs is also beneficial, as they can impair your judgment. 

It is also vital to safeguard your home. You can do so by installing safety rails on stairs and using nonslip mats in the bathroom. Securing loose rugs can reduce the risk of falls, particularly for children and elderly adults.

Additionally, be cautious when playing sports. Using proper protective equipment and following safety rules when playing sports can reduce the chances of TBI. Avoid risky behavior such as texting while driving to reduce the chances of car accidents and TBI.

Living With TBI

Living with TBI can be a challenging experience, both for the person with the injury and their loved ones. But with appropriate treatment and support, people with these conditions can lead fulfilling lives. It is vital to follow the treatment plan given by your specialist.

Practicing self-care, such as eating healthy and getting enough sleep, helps promote healing and reduce the chances of experiencing complications. Seek support from your family and friends to help manage the emotional and psychological effects of the injury. It is vital to manage your expectations. You can start by recognizing that recovery from TBI can take time and some symptoms may be permanent.