A chiropractor routinely sees car accident victims who come in with sciatica — a term that describes pain, numbness, burning, or tingling in the lower back and possibly legs. Fortunately, a chiropractor can provide treatments, such as physical therapy for back pain. The same applies if you develop sciatica due to another issue.
Besides in-office care, you can also take at-home steps to ease your discomfort, as noted by an Atlanta, GA, chiropractor from the Integrated Health & Injury Center.
Visit a Chiropractor as Soon as Possible
After you experience an injury to your lower back, schedule an appointment with a chiropractor as soon as possible. This practitioner can determine the root of the problem and establish an appropriate treatment approach. For instance, your musculoskeletal specialist may recommend you undergo physical therapy for back pain. One or more chiropractic adjustments may be given to ease pressure on your sensitive nerves and soft tissue in your lower back.
Take a Short Break
If you have signs of sciatica, whether you suffered from a car accident or another injury, take time to relax and let your body heal a bit at first. You’ll give your muscles and other soft tissue a break and won’t worsen the injury. Ideally, you want to take it easy for the first few days after the incident that caused your injury.
Remain Active
After the first few days, make sure you get up and move. If you sit too long, you’ll place pressure on the sciatic nerve and worsen your condition.
While you want to get up and get moving, listen to your body during this time. If you notice an increase in your pain, ease up on the physical activity a bit.
Make sure you talk to your chiropractor about any limitations you have. Typically, your practitioner will inform you when you can resume certain activities. For instance, you may need to limit how much weight you lift.
Use Hot and Cold Therapy
A hot rag or cloth-covered ice pack can provide relief and aid with the healing process. As a general rule, you’ll want to use ice for the first week or so. The cold will reduce blood flow to the area, which can lessen inflammation. When you reduce inflammation, it’ll no longer place pressure on your soft tissue and nerves. Ice also has the potential to decrease nerve activity. Make sure you only leave the ice on the region for short periods to prevent the cold from injuring your skin.
After the first few days, start using heat on the area. You could also alternate between hot and cold. The heat will encourage blood flow so the region gets adequate nutrients for healing. Not to mention, the warmth has the potential to soothe sore muscles.
Perform Stretches
Start performing stretches at home. Your chiropractor can guide you through the best ones to do to ease your pain and promote healing.
Ideally, you should stretch at least once per day for optimal results.
Watch Your Posture
If you’re used to slouching, now is the time to focus on sitting up straight and tall. Poor posture causes excess weight on your lower back.
A car accident chiropractor may be key in helping with sciatica, especially with physical therapy for back pain. Plus, even if you have sciatica for another reason, a practitioner can help as well. In addition, you can take steps at home to further assist in the healing process and keep you comfortable as you recover.
Contact Integrated Health & Injury Center, serving Atlanta, GA, and the surrounding area, at 404-288-9000 to start recuperating today! You may also use our contact form.