Sciatica is a painful condition when the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back down to your legs, becomes compressed due to several causes, such as slipped discs, spinal stenosis, and piriformis syndrome. The pain, which can range from mild to severe and is typically described as a burning, radiating, or shooting sensation, is felt along the nerve pathways in your lower back, buttock, and leg. Treatment for Sciatica has shown to be effective. Dr. Han Jo Kim is well-trained and experienced in this field. If you have been dealing with Sciatica and need a back pain specialist in NJ, call the office of Dr. Han Jo Kim at 212-774-2837.
What Are The Symptoms of Sciatica?
The most common symptom of Sciatica is the pain that radiates along the nerve pathways in your lower back, buttock, and leg. Other symptoms include:
- Tingling or numbness in one or both legs.
- Weakness in the affected leg.
- A burning sensation down the back of your leg and difficulty moving your leg or foot.
Dr. Han Jo Kim is the premier back pain specialist in NJ. Visit our website today!
Although doctors may prescribe medication such as analgesics and anti-inflammatories to help manage sciatica symptoms, there are also many self-care measures that you can take to reduce your pain. Here are five ways to reduce your chronic sciatica pain:
- Exercise – Regular exercise can strengthen the muscles in your lower back, hips, and abdomen, which helps ease the pressure on the sciatic nerve and reduce symptoms of Sciatica.
- Incorporate Stretching Into Your Daily Routine – Regularly stretching your body can help to reduce chronic sciatica pain. There are many different stretches that you can do, from hamstring and glute stretches to calf and piriformis muscle stretch.
- Consider Physical Therapy – Physical therapy is a great way to reduce chronic sciatica pain. A physical therapist can assess the issue and develop an individualized plan.
- Use a Foam Roller – Foam rolling can help to reduce chronic sciatica pain by relieving tension and tightness in your muscles, which can help to reduce the pressure on your sciatic nerve. Start using a soft foam roller, and gradually use a firmer cylindrical roller as your body becomes more comfortable with it.
- Applying Ice Or Heat – Applying ice or heat to the affected area can help to reduce chronic sciatica pain. Try using a cold pack for 10-15 minutes at a time, and then alternate with heat (such as a heating pad or warm bath) for 10-15 minutes afterward.
What Are The Causes of Sciatica?
A number of issues, such as slipped discs, spinal stenosis, piriformis syndrome, or muscle spasms, can cause Sciatica. It is essential to consult with a physician if your Sciatica worsens. Contact our back pain specialist in NJ to ensure that the cause of your Sciatica is appropriately diagnosed and treated.
What Are The Risk Factors for Sciatica?
The risk factors for Sciatica include:
- Age
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Occupational hazards and lifestyle activities
Dr. Han Jo Kim is a reputable back pain specialist in NJ who specializes in treating chronic sciatica pain. Contact our offices today if you are looking for an experienced chiropractor to help manage your pain.
Different Types of Sciatica From Our Back Pain Specialist in NJ?
The most common types of Sciatica are lumbar radiculopathy, isthmic spondylolisthesis, and piriformis syndrome. Lumbar radiculopathy occurs when a nerve in the lower spine is compressed or irritated. A defect in the vertebrae causes isthmic spondylolisthesis, and piriformis syndrome occurs when the piriformis muscle presses against the sciatic nerve. If you are looking for a back pain specialist in NJ who is experienced in treating these types of Sciatica, contact Dr. Han Jo Kim today! Our cutting-edge treatments can help reduce your chronic pain.
How Can You Prevent Sciatica?
Although there is no sure way to prevent Sciatica completely, you can take a few measures to reduce your risk. Regularly stretching and exercising can help strengthen the lower back, hips, and abdomen muscles. Maintaining a good posture while sitting or standing for extended periods is also important.
Choosing Our Back Pain Specialist in NJ
At Dr. Han Jo Kim’s offices, we provide a comprehensive approach to sciatica pain treatment that incorporates stretching, strengthening exercises, and medication management. We also offer lifestyle modifications and ergonomic assessments to help you better manage your condition. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to helping you find relief from chronic Sciatica. If you have been looking for a back pain specialist in NJ, call us today at 212-774-2837.