Sciatica is a pain that is often caused by a herniated or slipped disk pressing on the sciatic nerve or by the narrowing of your spine. Sciatica can come on suddenly or gradually and originates from your lower back down to your hips and leg. It is a common condition that many adults struggle with within their lifetime. If you are suffering from sciatica, our team at Circle Chiropractic Center, PC in Fairfax can help treat the root cause of the pain so that the condition doesn't keep you from enjoying your life.

Causes of Sciatica

Sciatica is caused by compression of the sciatic nerve, which branches from your lower back through your hips and buttocks and down each leg. The sciatic nerve is often pinched or compressed by a vertebrae bone or a herniated disc in the spine. But in rare cases, the nerve may be damaged by diseases such as diabetes or tumor compression.

Common Risk Factors for Sciatica

Here are some of the common risk factors associated with sciatica:

• Obesity: Excess weight gain may trigger changes in your spine, putting pressure on the sciatic nerve.
• Age: Some age-related changes in your spine, like bone spur and herniated discs, can cause lower back pain. When your discs bulge or rupture, they put pressure on the sciatic nerve, causing pain.
• Work ergonomics: People with a sedentary lifestyle or sitting for long periods of time have been known to experience this pain more than those said to be active. Additionally, if your job involves frequent twisting and bending, the chances of sciatica pain are high.
• Diabetes: This disease affects how your body utilizes sugar and can cause damage to the nerves, including the sciatic nerve.
• Injury: Auto accidents, sports injuries, slips, and falls can cause damage to the back, causing spinal changes that compress on the sciatic nerve.
• Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy may cause weight gain. The weight of the baby can also put pressure on the lower back, triggering sciatica pain.

Contact Us for Pain Relief from Sciatica in Fairfax 

If you are experiencing any symptoms of sciatica, our doctor, Christopher Frey, D.C., is ready to help. After a thorough assessment, Dr. Frey will customize a treatment program unique to your needs. We are committed to helping patients in Fairfax and surrounding areas find the relief they need to get back to living pain-free. To schedule an appointment at Circle Chiropractic Center, PC or to learn more about how we can treat your neck or back pain, contact our office today!