What Is Sciatica?
Sciatica isn't a condition on its own, it's the term for pain that follows the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back through your hip and buttock and down each leg. When something compresses or irritates that nerve, you feel it anywhere along that path, not just where the actual problem is.
What Does Sciatica Feel Like?
Pain that radiates from your lower back through your buttock and down one leg
A burning or electric, shock-like sensation down the leg
Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg or foot
Pain that worsens when sitting for long periods
Pain that's often on just one side of the body
What Causes Sciatica?
Sciatica happens when something compresses the sciatic nerve or the nerve roots that form it. The most common causes include:
A herniated or bulging disc pressing on a nerve root
Degenerative disc disease
Spinal narrowing that puts pressure on the nerve
In some cases, muscle tightness or injury
Because sciatica is a symptom rather than a diagnosis on its own, finding out what's actually compressing the nerve is the key step in treating it effectively.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends entirely on what's causing the sciatica in the first place. Common approaches include:
Chiropractic care
Physical therapy
Non-surgical spinal decompression
In persistent or severe cases, further evaluation for other options.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If sciatica pain, whether mild or severe can inhibit daily activites like working, sleeping or exercise. Don’t wait and deal with pain, it is worth getting evaluated rather than waiting it out. If you are experience extreme or life-threatening pain please contact 911.
Dealing with pain that runs down your leg? Contact our office today →
FAQ
Does sciatica go away on its own?
Mild cases often improve with time and conservative care, but persistent or worsening sciatica should be evaluated, since the underlying cause matters more than the symptom itself.
Is sciatica always caused by a herniated disc?
No. A herniated disc is a common cause, but degenerative disc disease, spinal narrowing, and other issues can also cause sciatic nerve compression.
Can chiropractic care help with sciatica?
It can, depending on the underlying cause. An exam helps determine whether chiropractic care, non-surgical spinal decompression, or another approach is the right fit for your specific case.
