Sciatica

The sciatic nerve is the largest and longest nerve in the body. It is formed from the union of several lumbar spinal nerves. Sciatica, caused by an irritation of this nerve, is characterized by low back pain that radiates along the posterior aspect of the thigh and sometimes extending as far down as the foot.

Some of the causes of sciatica are malpositions of the lumbar vertebrae, contracture of the piriformis muscle, arthrosis leading to an irritation of one or more of the associated lumbar spinal nerves and herniated lumbar discs.

Chiropractic adjustments are often very effective in reducing the irritation and pain associated with this condition.