Introduction
Sciatica is a common condition that can cause sharp, radiating pain down the leg, significantly impacting daily life and work. At Active Health Chiropractic, we take a holistic approach to treating sciatica by identifying the root cause and providing targeted treatments. Our experienced chiropractors perform thorough evaluations to determine the best course of care, using spinal adjustments to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pressure on the sciatic nerve.
In addition to chiropractic care, we incorporate specific exercises and stretches to strengthen the supporting muscles, improve posture, and prevent future flare-ups. Our goal is not just to relieve pain but to promote long-term wellness. Let’s explore what sciatica is and how we treat it at Active Health Chiropractic.
What is Sciatica?
Sciatica is a condition characterized by pain, tingling, or numbness along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down through the legs. As the largest and longest nerve in the body, the sciatic nerve originates from the lumbosacral plexus (L4-S3), exits the pelvis, passes under the piriformis muscle (or sometimes through it, contributing to piriformis syndrome), and travels down the posterior thigh.
Sciatica is often caused by a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or muscle strain, leading to nerve compression that can significantly affect mobility and quality of life.
How Sciatica Presents
If you have sciatica, you may experience:
- Sharp, shooting pain down one leg
- Pins and needles sensation in the affected leg or foot
- Weakness in the leg, making it difficult to lift the foot
- Pain worsened by sitting or bending and relieved by lying down or extending the spine
- Symptoms typically affecting only one side of the body
How We Evaluate for Sciatica
At Active Health Chiropractic, we use a combination of assessments to diagnose sciatica:
- Range of Motion Testing – We assess lumbar spine movement, including flexion, extension, and lateral bending, noting any restrictions or pain.
- Neurological Exam – We test muscle strength and reflexes associated with the sciatic nerve, looking for any diminished responses.
- Orthopedic Tests – We perform specific tests such as the Modified Slump Test and Straight Leg Raise to reproduce symptoms and confirm sciatic nerve involvement.
How We Treat Sciatica
We take a multi-faceted approach to sciatica treatment:
- Chiropractic Adjustments – We perform targeted spinal adjustments to restore proper joint function, reduce nerve irritation, and alleviate pain, focusing on the lumbar and sacral regions.
- Lumbar Flexion and Distraction – This technique involves gentle spinal flexion and decompression to reduce disc pressure and nerve irritation. By creating a controlled stretching and pumping motion, we improve spinal mobility and enhance nutrient flow to damaged tissues.
- Soft Tissue Mobilization (STM) – We use hands-on therapy to release tension in the iliopsoas and lumbar erector muscles. Tightness in these muscles can exacerbate sciatic pain by increasing lumbar stiffness and nerve compression. Through deep tissue techniques, myofascial release, and stretching, STM helps restore flexibility, reduce muscular restrictions, and relieve sciatic discomfort.
At-Home Exercises for Sciatica Relief
One key exercise we recommend is sciatic nerve flossing. This gentle neuromobilization technique helps the sciatic nerve glide smoothly through surrounding tissues. By alternately stretching and releasing tension on the nerve, sciatic nerve flossing reduces adhesions, inflammation, and compression, effectively alleviating pain, numbness, and tingling. This exercise is a valuable tool for restoring normal nerve function and preventing future flare-ups.
Conclusion
At Active Health Chiropractic, we take a comprehensive and personalized approach to treating sciatica, addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes. If you’re experiencing sciatic pain, we’re here to help. Watch our video of what our appointments look like with patient’s dealing with Sciatica here! Also Visit our Treatments & Conditions page to learn more, or schedule your appointment online today to start your journey toward relief and recovery!