Sciatica

Understanding Sciatic Pain

Sciatica is a condition that affects about 40% of the people in the U.S. causing discomfort that radiates from the lower back through the hip and down one of your legs. Generally speaking, sciatica is unilateral but in more rare cases, sciatica can radiate down both legs. This pain is primarily a result of irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve. Factors of this irritation or compression include herniated discs, bone spurs, spinal stenosis, or even pregnancy. Pain generated from irritation to the sciatica nerve is often deep and may cause sensations of tingling, numbness, burning and sometimes even muscle weakness.

How can Chiropractic care help Sciatica

Chiropractors are professionals that are trained to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal issues. They have a range of techniques that can be effective for sciatica pain relief.

1. Spinal Adjustments: Chiropractors use spinal manipulation techniques to align the spine and improve function. This realignment alleviates pressure on the sciatic nerve which can reduce pain and inflammation.

2. Therapy: Many chiropractic practices incorporate therapy, such as massage therapy, e-stim therapy, and decompression therapy into the spinal adjustments to help ease muscle tension surrounding the spine. This is to enhance the effectiveness of adjustments.

3. Exercise and Rehabilitation: Chiropractors will recommend specific exercises aimed at strengthening the muscles in the back which can provide long-term relief and prevent future episodes of sciatica.

4. Posture and Lifestyle advice: Prolonged periods of poor posture can worsen sciatica. Chiropractors can evaluate a patient’s poor posture and provide guidance on adjustments through daily life to prevent strain on the back.

When should you seek chiropractic care for sciatica pain

If you are experiencing constant pain that you suspect may be sciatica, it is advisable to consult with a chiropractor. Signs of this may include:

• Pain that travels down one leg

• Difficulty sitting or standing for long periods of time

• Sudden onset of weakness in the muscles of a leg or foot

• In rare cases, changes in bladder and bowel functions which may require immediate medical attention
  
  

Conclusion

Should you choose Walter Chiropractic Clinic for treatment of your sciatica, Dr. Benjamin Bowman will provide the most effective chiropractic care using nonsurgical and noninvasive treatment options for sciatica. Dr. Bowman will also address the underlying issues contributing to sciatic nerve pain, in order to help his patients find relief and improve their quality of life.

Work Cited:
Cleveland Clinic. “Sciatica & Leg Pain | Cleveland Clinic.” Cleveland Clinic, 21 May 2023, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12792-sciatica.

Physiotattva. “How Can a Chiropractor Help with Sciatica.” Physiotattva.com, Physiotattva, 24 July 2023, www.physiotattva.com/blog/how-can-a-chiropractor-help-with-sciatica.
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Justin. “Hughes Chiropractic & Massage.” Hughes Chiropractic & Massage, 25 Oct. 2024, www.rentonchiropracticcare.com/when-to-see-a-chiropractor-for-sciatica-knowing-the-right-time-for-treatment/. Accessed 6 May 2025.