Conditions
Sciatica
Understanding sciatica
Sciatica is not a diagnosis by itself — it describes pain, tingling or numbness that travels along the sciatic nerve, from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg. It usually affects one side of the body.
It often happens when something in the lower back, such as a bulging or herniated disc or tight muscles, puts pressure on the nerve roots. Many people notice it gets worse when sitting for long periods, bending or coughing.
Our team focuses on finding what may be causing the irritation and building a personalized, non-surgical plan around your evaluation.
Common symptoms
- Pain that radiates from the lower back or buttock down one leg
- Burning, sharp or electric-like pain in the leg
- Tingling or “pins and needles” in the leg or foot
- Numbness or weakness in the leg or foot
- Pain that worsens when sitting, bending or coughing
- Difficulty standing up or walking comfortably
Common causes
- Herniated or bulging lumbar disc
- Degenerative disc changes with age
- Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
- Tight or irritated muscles in the buttock (piriformis)
- Injuries from falls, lifting or car accidents
How we may help
How our non-surgical care may help
- Spinal decompression may help reduce pressure on lumbar discs and nerve roots
- Chiropractic adjustments can support spinal alignment and mobility
- Shockwave and laser therapy may help reduce inflammation and support tissue healing
- Physiotherapy and rehab exercises can help build core strength and flexibility
- Roller-table massage may help relax tight muscles around the spine
When to seek urgent care
- • Seek emergency care if you lose control of your bladder or bowels.
- • Seek emergency care if you have numbness in the groin or inner thighs (saddle area).
- • Seek emergency care if leg weakness is getting worse quickly.
- • Seek emergency care if back and leg pain come with fever or follow a serious fall or accident.
If this is a medical emergency, call 911.
Treatments that may help
Treatments that may help
01 / 05Chiropractic CareGentle adjustments to improve spinal alignment, reduce nerve interference and support your body's natural healing.View service 
02 / 05Spinal DecompressionGentle, non-surgical traction that relieves pressure on discs and nerves — for herniated discs, sciatica and chronic back pain.View service 
03 / 05Shockwave TherapyStimulates blood flow and supports tissue healing for stubborn pain that hasn't responded to other treatments.View service 
04 / 05Laser TherapyNon-invasive light therapy that may reduce inflammation and support faster recovery — great with shockwave.View service 
05 / 05Physiotherapy & RehabGuided exercises and therapeutic techniques to rebuild strength, mobility and function.View service Swipe to see all services
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Many patients with sciatica look for non-surgical care first. After an evaluation, a chiropractor may recommend adjustments, spinal decompression and rehab exercises to help reduce pressure on the nerve and improve movement. Results vary, and if your symptoms need a different kind of care, we will tell you.
All conditions
Results vary. This page is educational and is not medical advice.
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