Pressure upon your lower body can cause quite a bit of discomfort. If you’re someone that works on their feet for a number of hours each day, frequents the gym, or even sits in the wrong position without support, you may be experiencing some type of leg pain. Sciatica may be a result of these actions as well.
Sciatic nerve pain is extremely common, especially among adults over 30 years of age. Typically, people experience shooting pain down one side of the body, stemming from the low back. If your sciatic nerve becomes irritated, you may experience difficulty walking, muscle weakness, and sharp pain within your hip, back or buttocks.
Adults are not alone in this, either. Children also encounter leg pain, specifically “growing pains” as they get older and become more active. Surprisingly, there is no evidence that these pains are linked to growth spurts, but may simply be from participating in intense sports and activities. This pain usually occurs in the late afternoon or evenings, and can even wake a child in the middle of the night. Though they will be irritating to the child, growing pains should not cause major concern, as they will not occur every day.
Introduction to chiropractic at any age can help both children and adults avoid added issues in the future. Nerves running along your spine contribute to major functions within your body: a healthy gut, lowered blood pressure, along with liver and kidney performance. Low back adjustments can diminish numbness and tingling within your legs, and even include further benefits such as constipation relief, bladder and menstrual problem aid, plus added support for ankles and feet. Double checking the supports in your shoes, as well as the soles, are important tasks to keep in mind, especially as an athlete.
There are other preventive measures to take, but if there is tightness surrounding your spine, or something is misaligned, the pain will gradually increase with time. This is why it is best to be seen by your chiropractor sooner than later. Here are some methods we suggest to keep pain at bay, and follow up with after an adjustment:
- ICE – will be your best friend and tame any swelling or inflammation
- Epsom salt bath – releases toxins and loosens tight muscles
- Stretch – slowly and gently, don’t lean too far into it!
- Massage – a reason to treat yourself, allowing your joints to move freely
- Ibuprofen or tylenol – when it comes down to it, this will provide further relief
Symptoms will not completely subside at first, but keeping up with a provided regimen will bring you peace and comfort soon enough. Both of our chiropractors have seen a number of patients both young and old, that experienced sciatic nerve pain or leg pain in general. To schedule an appointment, or address any questions you may have regarding this topic, give us a call! We also have in-office, licensed massage therapists.
Exuberance Chiropractic & Wellness Center
East Location: (952) 435-3346 / 16023 Elmhurst Lane, Lakeville, MN 55044
West Location: (952) 435-3345 / 17787 Kenwood Trl, Lakeville, MN 55044
*It is important to note that some leg pain may be caused by a potential blood clot and poor circulation. In this case, you should consult your family doctor.