Understanding Sciatica in Mobile AL: Causes and Chiropractic Perspectives

Main Causes Originating from the Spine in Mobile AL

Vertebral Subluxation
Because the sciatic nerve roots exit the spinal column at the lumbar (L4, L5) and sacral (S1, S2, S3) levels, problems here frequently cause sciatica. Chiropractic care often includes spinal adjustments, heat or ice therapy, and other physical modalities. In severe cases, medication may be used for pain relief.

Herniated Lumbar Disc
Between each vertebra lies an intervertebral disc, which acts as a shock absorber. If the soft center of a disc pushes through its tough exterior, it can press on the sciatic nerve roots and cause symptoms. Most often, this involves a swollen or bulging disc rather than a complete herniation.

Spinal Stenosis
With age, the spine undergoes wear and tear that can cause the ligaments to thicken and bone spurs to form, narrowing the spinal canal. This can compress nerve roots, a problem sometimes made worse by vertebral subluxation.

Spondylolisthesis
Most common in the lower lumbar spine, spondylolisthesis occurs when one vertebra slips forward over another, often due to a bilateral fracture of the pars interarticularis. While it may not cause symptoms in some, more severe cases can compress nerves, leading to pain or weakness, especially involving the fourth or fifth lumbar vertebra.

Piriformis Syndrome
Piriformis syndrome involves irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve by the piriformis muscle, located in the buttocks. Anatomical variations in the muscle can also split and press on the nerve.

Degenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD), also known as Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD), involves the loss of water content and shrinking of spinal discs with age. This can make the discs fibrotic and brittle, sometimes leading to pressure on the sciatic nerve. Chiropractic adjustments may help by improving mobility in the affected vertebrae.

Tumors
Although rare, tumors in the pelvis or spine can compress the sciatic nerve along its path.

Bone Spurs
Bone spurs are bony outgrowths from the vertebrae, often linked to aging, which can pinch or press on the sciatic nerve. Chiropractic adjustments may help by realigning vertebrae, potentially reducing pressure and inflammation.

Traumatic Injury
Accidents, such as falls or car crashes, can directly injure or inflame the sciatic nerve. It is important to avoid electrical hot packs in these cases and instead use moist heat, like warm showers or Epsom salt baths, to relax the body. Applying ice packs in the early stages of treatment helps decrease swelling.