Common Causes of Sciatica: Explained by your Rye Chiropractor

Sciatica can be frustrating at best, and debilitatingly painful at worst. While seeing a specialist is the only way to identify and treat it, Joseph K. Askinasi DC, DABCO, sheds some light on its common causes to help you develop a better understanding of the condition.

As a leading chiropractic orthopedist with offices in both New York City and Rye, NY, Joseph K. Askinasi DC, DABCO, is committed to providing his patients with all the resources they need to lead a life of wellness and comfort. Here are a few reasons you may be suffering from sciatica.

Piriformis Syndrome

This issue occurs when the piriformis muscle, located in the buttocks, pinches or irritates a nerve root, which affects the nearby sciatic nerve.  It is a common cause and does not involve the spinal discs. 

Stenosis

As people begin to age, their spinal canal and the exits for the nerve roots from that canal can narrow. This can result in sciatica, but it typically occurs only in adults over the age of 60.

Tumors

A spinal tumor can put pressure on the sciatic nerve, resulting in pain throughout the buttocks and legs. If your pain doesn’t diminish with rest and is accompanied by abnormalities such as muscle weakness, bladder issues, fever, vomiting and unplanned weight loss, seek immediate medical attention.

Diabetes

Because one symptom of diabetes can include damage to peripheral nerves as a result of spiked blood sugar levels, individuals with this medical condition may have a higher risk of experiencing sciatic nerve pain.

Dental Distortion

A cause of sciatic nerve pain many overlook is dental or cranial distortion. Improper skull alignment can lead to a number of medical issues, including sciatic nerve pain. The International Center for Nutritional Research confirms there is a direct link between the chewing muscles and those that stabilize the pelvis, meaning structural imbalances causing sciatica can begin in the mouth. 

If you need natural, lasting relief from your sciatica or another form of back pain, let New York’s leading chiropractor help. Call the office of Joseph K. Askinasi DC, DABCO, at (914) 481-4692.