Treatment options for sciatica and other nerve-related conditions can vary from rest, pain medications, epidural injections, and surgery. However, approximately 60% of people with low back pain also have associated symptoms of leg pain. The guidelines for low back pain recommend non-pharmacological approaches, such as spinal manipulation, a therapy provided by chiropractors. This study aimed to describe the prevalence, profile, and characteristics of the practice of Australian chiropractors who usually treat lower back-related leg pain (LBRLP).
The results showed that chiropractors who “often” treat LBRLP are more likely to treat pregnant women compared to those who don't usually treat LBRLP. Of the chiropractors who treated LBRLP “often”, 1143 (74.2%) treated LBRLP “often”, and 1093 (75.3%) practiced exclusively in urban areas. Chiropractors can help ease sciatica pain by using spinal manipulation techniques and other natural practices. These techniques can help relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve.
The specific nature of medication discussions among Australian chiropractors about LBRLP in this study was not examined and requires more detailed examination in future research. Overall, nearly three-quarters of Australian chiropractors reported that they frequently treated LBRLP, but the specific nature of their analyses and treatment approaches related to LBRLP remains unclear. In conclusion, Australian chiropractors typically treat LBRLP, although the nature of treatment approaches specific to this condition remains unclear. The authors also wish to recognize and thank the Australian chiropractors who participated in this study.
