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
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