Sciatica
Sciatica is a type of lower back and leg pain caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body. It often starts in the lower back or buttock and radiates down the leg, sometimes reaching the calf or foot. Symptoms can include sharp pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that makes standing, walking, or sitting difficult. At KIRO, we focus on relieving nerve pressure, restoring spinal motion, and guiding you with exercises that protect and support the sciatic nerve for lasting relief.
Why does sciatica occur?
Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve is irritated or compressed, most often from a herniated disc, spinal misalignment, or tight muscles like the piriformis in the hip. These issues create pressure on the nerve, leading to pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that travels from the lower back down the leg.
What are the common symptoms with sciatica?
Common symptoms of sciatica include sharp or burning pain that starts in the lower back or buttock and radiates down one leg. Many people also experience numbness, tingling, muscle weakness, or a “pins and needles” sensation in the leg or foot. Symptoms often worsen with sitting, bending, or prolonged standing.
Who is most at risk for sciatica?
People most at risk for sciatica include adults between 30 and 60, especially those with jobs or activities that involve heavy lifting, twisting, or long hours of sitting. Athletes in high-impact or rotational sports, pregnant women, and individuals with herniated discs, spinal arthritis, or poor posture are also more likely to develop sciatic nerve pain.
How do KIRO doctors treat sciatica?
At KIRO, care for sciatica begins with a detailed exam to pinpoint the source of nerve irritation. In the symptomatic phase (usually 1–2 visits per week), our chiropractors use precise adjustments to restore motion in the lumbar spine, pelvis, and hips, helping relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve.
In the corrective phase, we add targeted exercises such as core stabilization, hip mobility work, and nerve glide drills to improve flexibility and reduce recurrence. Posture training and safe movement strategies are also taught to protect the sciatic nerve during daily activities.
As symptoms resolve, patients move into the preventive phase, where periodic care helps maintain spinal health and prevents flare-ups. We perform monthly Nervous System Scans to track progress and rotate doctors so you benefit from multiple expert perspectives and the highest level of clinical insight.
How long does sciatica treatment take?
Most patients with sciatica notice relief within 4–6 weeks as nerve pressure decreases during the symptomatic phase. The corrective phase, typically another 6–8 weeks, focuses on restoring core stability, hip mobility, and long-term spinal alignment. In total, about 12 weeks of consistent chiropractic care often provides lasting improvements, with many patients choosing ongoing preventive care to reduce the risk of flare-ups.
What are the benefits of chiropractic care for sciatica?
Benefits of chiropractic care for sciatica:
Relieves radiating leg and lower back pain
Reduces pressure and irritation on the sciatic nerve
Improves spinal motion and pelvic alignment
Decreases numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness
Restores flexibility and hip mobility
Provides safe, drug-free, and non-surgical relief
Supports long-term prevention of flare-ups through posture and strength training
FAQs
What is the difference between sciatica and regular back pain?
Regular back pain usually stays in the lower back and may feel like stiffness, aching, or muscle spasms. Sciatica, on the other hand, occurs when the sciatic nerve is irritated, causing pain that radiates from the lower back into the buttock, leg, or foot. It often includes numbness, tingling, or weakness, symptoms not typically seen with standard back pain.
Do I need an MRI or x-ray for sciatica?
Most cases of sciatica do not require imaging right away. A thorough exam can usually identify the cause. An MRI or X-ray may be recommended if symptoms are severe, persistent, worsening, or linked with red flags like significant weakness, loss of bladder/bowel control, or suspected disc herniation.
Can chiropractic help with a herniated-disc sciatica?
Yes, chiropractic care can help with sciatica caused by a herniated disc. Gentle, targeted adjustments restore spinal motion and reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve, while exercises and posture training support healing and prevent recurrence. Many patients experience reduced pain, improved mobility, and faster recovery without relying on medication or surgery.
Can walking or exercise help with sciatica?
Yes, gentle walking and exercise can help relieve sciatica by improving circulation, reducing nerve pressure, and keeping the spine mobile. Low-impact activities like walking, core stabilization, and stretching for the hips and hamstrings often ease symptoms. Our chiropractors can guide you on the safest exercises and progressions for your condition.
What are the best positions to sleep in if I have sciatica?
The best sleep positions for sciatica are those that reduce pressure on the lower back and sciatic nerve. Sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees helps keep the spine aligned. If you prefer sleeping on your back, placing a pillow under your knees can ease nerve tension. Avoid sleeping on your stomach, as it can increase strain on the lumbar spine.
What kind of stretches can I do for sciatica?
Gentle stretches that target the hips, hamstrings, and lower back can help relieve sciatica by easing pressure on the sciatic nerve. Some options include:Piriformis stretch (lying on your back, crossing one ankle over the opposite knee)Seated figure-four stretch for hip mobilityKnee-to-chest stretch to reduce lumbar tensionCat-cow stretch for spinal mobilityHamstring stretch to relieve nerve tightness in the back of the legThese should be done slowly and without forcing movement. Our chiropractor can guide you on the safest stretches for your condition on your next visit.
Is it normal for sciatica symptoms to change locations?
Yes, it’s common for sciatica symptoms to shift or change locations. Because the sciatic nerve runs from the lower back through the hips and down the leg, irritation can cause pain, numbness, or tingling in different areas along its path. Sometimes symptoms lessen in one spot as they improve but appear elsewhere temporarily. A chiropractor can track these changes to ensure the nerve is healing properly.
Should I consider surgery for sciatica?
Surgery for sciatica is rarely needed and usually only considered if symptoms are severe, last longer than 3–6 months, or involve serious issues like loss of bladder/bowel control or progressive leg weakness. Most people improve with conservative care such as chiropractic adjustments, targeted exercises, and posture training, without needing surgery.
Can a tight piriformis cause sciatica?
Yes, a tight piriformis muscle in the buttock can compress the sciatic nerve, causing pain, numbness, or tingling down the leg. This is known as piriformis syndrome, a common cause of sciatica-like symptoms. Chiropractic care, stretching, and mobility work can help release the muscle and relieve nerve pressure.
How can I prevent flare-ups with sciatica?
You can prevent sciatica flare-ups by keeping your spine mobile and your core strong. Key strategies include:Practicing good posture while sitting, standing, and liftingTaking movement breaks every 30–45 minutes if you sit long hoursStrengthening your core, hips, and glutes to support the lower backStretching the hamstrings and piriformis regularlyUsing proper lifting mechanics to avoid sudden strainManaging stress, since tension can worsen nerve irritationConsistent chiropractic care and lifestyle adjustments help reduce the risk of recurring sciatic pain.
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