Sciatica is a term used to describe pain that typically begins in the lower back or buttock and extends down the back or side of the leg. Sciatica is a symptom that can result from several different conditions affecting the lower back or nerves.

Key Insight:

The most common cause of sciatica is irritation or compression of one or more of the nerve roots that form the sciatic nerve. This may occur from a lumbar disc herniation, spinal stenosis, degenerative changes, or, less commonly, conditions affecting the muscles around the pelvis such as piriformis syndrome. Symptoms may include sharp or burning leg pain, numbness, tingling, muscle weakness, or pain that worsens with prolonged sitting, coughing, or sneezing.

Most cases of sciatica improve over time with conservative treatment. Current clinical guidelines recommend remaining as active as tolerated, avoiding prolonged bed rest, and participating in an individualized rehabilitation program. Chiropractic adjustments can help reduce pain and improve function for some individuals with mechanical low back pain and sciatica. In addition to chiropractic adjustments, treatment may include therapeutic exercise, soft tissue therapy, posture and ergonomic education, and activity modification based on the patient's condition and examination findings.

A thorough evaluation is important because not all leg pain is caused by sciatica. Hip disorders, vascular conditions, peripheral nerve disorders, and other medical conditions can produce similar symptoms.

If you're experiencing pain, numbness, or tingling that radiates into your leg, a comprehensive evaluation can help determine the source of your symptoms and whether conservative care is appropriate for your condition.

Interested in learning whether chiropractic care may help your sciatica? Contact our office today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation and discuss your personalized treatment plan.

Contact Us:

Dr. Peter Britton, DC & Dr. Alyssa Lenox, DC
1111 N. Northgate Way
Seattle, WA 98133
Phone: 206-523-2225
Appointments can be made on our website: https://intouchwithhealthseattle.com/home

Sources:

• Qaseem A, Wilt TJ, McLean RM, Forciea MA. Noninvasive Treatments for Acute, Subacute, and Chronic Low Back Pain: A Clinical Practice Guideline From the American College of Physicians. Available through PubMed.

• National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Low Back Pain and Sciatica in Over 16s: Assessment and Management. Available through PubMed.

• Kreiner DS, Hwang SW, Easa JE, et al. Evidence-Based Clinical Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Lumbar Disc Herniation with Radiculopathy. Available through PubMed.

• Bussières AE, Stewart G, Al-Zoubi F, et al. Clinical Practice Guideline for Conservative Management of Low Back Pain and Related Disorders. Available through PubMed.