With up to
40% of people experiencing sciatica at some point in their lives, it is important to understand what it is and some potential causes and treatments. Sciatica describes pain radiating along your sciatic nerve. That nerve runs from the lower back to the legs, passing through the buttocks and hips.
Signs of Sciatica
Whether you experience sciatica pain from a car accident or another cause, the symptoms will typically be very similar. The most common and important symptom is pain starting in the lower spine, passing through the buttocks and radiating to your legs. This is the most common pain pathway, with the pain typically going down the back of the thigh and even to the calf, but there are variations.
That pain may be sharp, mild, burning, or excruciating. It may get worse if you sit for a long time or sneeze. You may also experience muscle weakness, tingling, or numbness.
When Sciatica Requires Medical Attention
In the case of mild sciatica, you may be able to just wait for it to get better. However, once the pain lasts a week or more, you need to see a doctor, such as a chiropractor. Remember that acute episodes can last about
one or two weeks.
You will also want to get chiropractic treatment for sciatica or visit another doctor if the pain is sudden and severe, along with muscle weakness or numbness. You should also see a doctor if it comes with bladder or bowel control issues or in the case of sciatica from a car accident or another violent injury.
Diagnosing Sciatica
Your doctor may use a combination of tests to diagnose your sciatica, including X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, and EMGs (electromyography).
How to Treat Sciatica From a Car Accident
Whether you experience sciatica pain from a car accident or another cause, there are several common treatment options that your doctor may suggest.
Medications
Your doctor may prescribe muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatories, tricyclic antidepressants, narcotics, or anti-seizure medications.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is a common part of sciatica treatment as it helps you strengthen the relevant muscles and improve your posture while regaining your mobility.
Chiropractic Care
You can also visit a chiropractor for sciatica in Newark, NJ. . Chiropractors will perform careful manipulations, massages, and other adjustments to reduce the pain and inflammation associated with sciatica. They also use ultrasounds and hot and cold therapies to help treat sciatica.
Steroid Injections
Your chiropractic treatment for sciatica may also include steroid injections. These feature corticosteroids that reduce inflammation and, therefore, pain. They typically only last for several months, and you cannot have them more than a few times a year.
Surgery
In severe cases, surgery may be an option to treat sciatica. However, doctors typically opt for this treatment only if other treatments fail.
Paying for Treatment
You typically will not have to pay out of pocket for your chiropractic treatment for sciatica following a car accident. The party responsible for the accident will be responsible for paying for your treatment, so their insurance should cover it for you. Experienced chiropractors will be familiar with the documentation requirements to help you file your claim.
Get Help Now, Call (973) 485-2332, or click here to make an appointment today
Call us today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Terry McSweeney, with over 30 years of chiropractic care experience. We are conveniently located in the North Ward of Newark, NJ, and accept most insurance plans. Same-Day appointments may be available. Call us today or click
here to make an appointment!
About Dr. McSweeney
Dr. McSweeney was born in Cork, Ireland, and has lived in New Jersey since 1986 when he started practicing Chiropractic Medicine in Newark. He opened the door to his private practice “Mount Prospect Health Center,” in 1989, focusing on family and general chiropractic and then expanding to acupuncture and pain management. His bi-cultural background and focus on community collaboration and participation have led him to volunteer opportunities and community leadership roles. Dr. McSweeney graduated from undergraduate school at McNeese University in Lake Charles, Louisiana, and received his chiropractic degree from Texas Chiropractic College. Dr. McSweeney is certified in Manipulation Under Anesthesia, he is a member of both the New Jersey Chiropractic Society and American Chiropractic Society; he is also a board member of the Mount Prospect Partnership and director of Mayor Quintana’s Health Program.
About Mount Prospect Health Center
Mount Prospect Health Center is a multi-disciplinary medical facility located in Newark, NJ. Our specialties include chiropractic, orthopedics, pain management, and physical therapy. Visit our website at
mtphc.com to learn more about us.
Call (973) 485-2332 to book your appointment and get on the road to recovery!
Additional Sources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sciatica/symptoms-causes/syc-20377435
https://www.spine-health.com/conditions/sciatica/sciatica-treatment
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sciatica/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20377441
