The sciatic nerve is made up by several nerve roots from L4 to S3, therefore misalignment in any of these spinal segments may contribute to the cause of the sciatica.
Patients usually reports of a sharp linear type of pain from the lower back down into the lower extremity associated with pins and needles, numbness, and weakness in the leg. Increased muscle contraction and intermittent lower back and buttocks spams may also develop.
Sciatic pain location and the corresponding levels of dysfunction
Misalignments from L5 to S3 segments usually cause the linear nerve pain at the back of the leg
L4 misalignments usually cause a linear nerve pain at the back but more towards the side of the leg
Chronic injuries as seen in spinal degeneration may also narrow the nerve passage due to the scar/fibrotic tissue at the superficial fascia and by the osteophytic bone formation from the underlying bones.
Assessment
Neurological examination
Spinal/Pelvic clinical assessment to identify the dysfunctional vertebral segments that contributed to this condition.
Xray analyses
Anteroposterior (AP) and Lateral spinal views are essential to accurately diagnosed and visualise the patterns of dysfunction.
MRI analysis
Important exam to verify the level of narrowing of the nerve passage and the exact point of irritation
Rule out any other condition; There are rare disorders that may create similar patterns of dysfunction, is advisable to rule out these conditions prior to the start of the treatment.
Treatment protocol
Specific spinal adjustment to relief the nerve root irritation
Low level laser application from the lower back following the path of the sciatic never down the leg
Neuromobilization techniques is used once the direct compression of the nerve is reduced.
Specific therapeutic essential oils are applied to reduce nerve inflammation and enhance healing.
Depending on the level of nerve compromised and chronicity of the misalignment a minimum of 6 weeks up to 12 weeks of treatment care may be necessary to resolve this deformity.
