Is Sciatica the Same as Back Pain?

Back pain and sciatica are often used interchangeably, but they are distinct conditions that require different approaches to treatment. At 22 Health, we understand how crucial it is to properly diagnose the source of your pain to ensure you receive the most effective care.

What’s the Difference Between Sciatica and Back Pain?

Back pain is a broad term that refers to discomfort in the muscles, ligaments, or joints of the spine. It can occur anywhere along the back, from the upper shoulders down to the lower back. Causes of back pain include muscle strain, poor posture, arthritis, or disc problems. This type of pain can range from mild to severe and may be chronic or acute.
 

Sciatica, on the other hand, refers to pain caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down through the hips, buttocks, and legs. The hallmark symptom of sciatica is radiating pain that typically affects one side of the body, often traveling down the leg. This nerve pain can be sharp, burning, or tingling, and may also cause weakness in the leg or foot.
 

The Importance of Proper Diagnosis

Because back pain and sciatica can have overlapping symptoms, an accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. At 22 Health, our skilled chiropractors assess each patient’s symptoms and perform a comprehensive evaluation to pinpoint the exact cause of your discomfort. Proper diagnosis allows us to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses the root of the problem, whether it’s related to the spine, nerves, or muscles.
 

Comprehensive Chiropractic Care for Sciatica and Back Pain

At 22 Health, we offer a range of chiropractic treatments to relieve both back pain and sciatica. Our holistic approach focuses on restoring your mobility, reducing inflammation, and promoting natural healing without relying on medications or invasive procedures.
 

1. Spinal Manipulation: Our chiropractors use spinal adjustments to correct misalignments in the spine, relieving pressure on the nerves and muscles that contribute to pain. For patients with sciatica, these adjustments help to ease the compression on the sciatic nerve, providing relief from radiating leg pain.
 

2. Cold Therapy: Cold therapy helps reduce inflammation and numb pain in affected areas. This treatment is particularly beneficial for patients experiencing acute back pain or sciatica, as it targets the source of inflammation and promotes faster recovery.
 

3. Ultrasound Therapy: Ultrasound therapy is used to treat deep tissue pain by delivering sound waves that increase blood flow, reduce stiffness, and improve mobility. This non-invasive treatment is effective for both muscle strains and nerve-related pain like sciatica.
 

4. Electrotherapy: Electrotherapy involves the use of electrical currents to stimulate muscles and nerves, reducing pain and promoting muscle relaxation. This technique is highly effective for managing chronic pain and providing relief from sciatica and other types of back pain.
 

Find Relief at 22 Health

If you’re suffering from sciatica or back pain, our comprehensive chiropractic care plans are tailored to each individual, ensuring you get the most effective treatment for your specific condition. With a combination of spinal manipulation, cold therapy, ultrasound, and electrotherapy, we provide a holistic approach that focuses on long-term relief and healing.
 

If you’re experiencing symptoms of sciatica or back pain, schedule a consultation with 22 Health for proper diagnosis and effective treatment options. Contact our office in Altamonte Springs, Florida, by calling (407) 951-8921 to book an appointment today.