Sciatica Treatment

MYO Lab worker showing spine model to a patient

Ever felt a sharp, shooting pain that travels from your lower back, down your buttock, through your leg? Thas may not just be a bad case of sitting too long—it could be sciatica. 

Sciatica is a condition characterized by pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back, through the hips, and down your leg. 

It typically occurs when a herniated disc or bone overgrowth compresses the nerve roots in the lumbar spine, located “upstream” from the sciatic nerve. It’s this compression that leads to inflammation, pain, and often numbness in the affected leg.

How long it lasts depends on the cause of the sciatica. We’ll get to that in a bit. In many cases, though, the pain may be caused by a herniated disc. This may improve with proper treatment within a few weeks to months. However, more severe sciatica accompanied by serious symptoms, like leg weakness or changes in bowel or bladder function, may require surgical intervention.

Our goal here is to provide you with a clear understanding of this condition and offer effective treatment options to help you find relief.

Symptoms of Sciatica

The symptoms of sciatica can range from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain. Common signs include:

  • A mild ache to a sharp, burning pain that starts in the lower back and travels down the leg, often extending to the foot.
  • A “pins and needles” sensation, often accompanied by reduced sensation in the affected area.
  • Weakness in the leg or foot, making movement more difficult.
  • Pain that worsens with cough, sneeze, sitting or standing for long periods of time.
  • Sciatica typically affects one side of the body, depending on the location of nerve irritation.

Causes of Sciatica

Sciatica typically occurs when the sciatic nerve is compressed or irritated. This compression may be the result of:

  • Herniated or Bulging Discs: One of the most common causes; this occurs when the soft cushioning between vertebrae protrudes, pressing on the sciatic nerve.
  • Spinal Stenosis: A narrowing of the spinal canal, which can put pressure on nerves, including the sciatic nerve.
  • Piriformis Syndrome: A condition where the piriformis muscle, located in the buttocks, compresses the sciatic nerve.
  • Trauma or Injury: Accidents or falls can lead to nerve compression or inflammation.
  • Prolonged Sitting or Poor Posture: Sedentary lifestyles and improper ergonomics can exacerbate the strain on the lower back, leading to sciatica.

When it’s NOT Sciatica But Looks Like It

Sciatica is one of the most commonly reported symptoms of people seeking Chiropractic care, though it’s important to be aware of how many things may actually mimic sciatica symptoms, without it actually being the sciatic nerve, such as:

Musculoskeletal Causes

  • Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction (this is THE most common mimicking issue we find at MYo!). Inflammation or misalignment in the sacroiliac joint can cause pain radiating down the leg, mimicking sciatica.
  • Facet Joint Syndrome. Irritation in the spinal facet joints can lead to referred pain similar to sciatic nerve pain.
  • Spinal Stenosis. Narrowing of the spinal canal compresses nerve roots, causing leg pain and weakness similar to sciatica.
  • Muscle Strain. Tight or injured muscles (e.g., glutes or hamstrings) can irritate nerves and lead to referred pain down the leg.

Neurological Causes

  • Peripheral Neuropathy. Nerve damage due to diabetes or other conditions can cause tingling, burning, or shooting pain in the legs.
  • Meralgia Paresthetica. Compression of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve causes pain and numbness in the outer thigh, resembling sciatica.
  • Lumbar Radiculopathy. Irritation of nerves exiting the lumbar spine can mimic sciatic nerve pain.

Vascular Causes

  • Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). Blood clots in the leg can cause swelling, pain, and tenderness, often mistaken for nerve-related pain.
  • Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). Poor circulation in the legs can cause cramping and pain during movement, resembling sciatica.

Other Causes

  • Hip Joint Issues (e.g., Arthritis or Labral Tear). Pain originating from the hip joint can radiate down the leg, mimicking sciatic nerve pain.
  • Pelvic Dysfunction or Tumors. Pelvic masses or dysfunction can compress nerves in the region, leading to symptoms similar to sciatica.
  • Shingles (Herpes Zoster). Pain and nerve irritation from shingles can mimic nerve pain, especially in its early stages before the rash appears.

How Chiropractors Treat Sciatica

Myo lab worker treating a patient for sciatica pain

As Chiropractors, we’re uniquely qualified to address sciatica because of our specialized focus on the musculoskeletal system, which includes the spine, muscles, and nerves. At our clinic at MYo Lab, we zero in on treating the root cause of sciatica rather than simply managing symptoms, providing a non-invasive, drug-free path to relief. Ultimately, we want to improve your range of motion and get you active and moving. 

Here’s an overview of the techniques our team uses to treat sciatica:

1. Spinal Adjustments

One of the primary methods we use is spinal adjustments, which aim to restore proper alignment to the spine. Misalignments can put unnecessary pressure on the sciatic nerve, causing pain and inflammation. By precisely adjusting the affected areas, we help reduce nerve compression, improve spinal function, and promote the body’s natural healing processes.

2. Soft Tissue Therapy

Inflamed or tight muscles around the sciatic nerve can make pain worse. Soft tissue therapy, which, depending on the severity of your condition, may include targeted massages or myofascial release techniques. This helps reduce muscle tension, improve blood flow, and minimize general inflammation.

3. Rehabilitative Exercises and Stretches

To complement hands-on treatments, we may also recommend specific exercises and stretches as part of our rehab program. We’re big on getting you moving, and these movements focus on strengthening the lower back and leg muscles, relieving tension on the sciatic nerve, and improving overall mobility. The idea isn’t just to get rid of the pain but also to prevent future episodes of sciatica.

4. Flexion-Distraction Technique

This gentle, non-invasive method involves a specially designed table that allows the spine to stretch and decompress. By relieving pressure on the affected nerves, this technique helps reduce pain and inflammation.

5. Modalities

Again, depending on the severity of the pain, we may also incorporate additional therapies such as Heat and Cold therapy (aka Low-Level Laser Therapy), Shockwave Therapy, or Acupuncture or Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS)/Dry Needling. These modalities aim to reduce inflammation, target nerve irritation, relax muscles, and accelerate the healing of the sciatic nerve.

6. Lifestyle and Ergonomic Guidance

We go beyond hands-on treatments. Our team talks to you about long-term recovery and some of our recommendations would include improving posture, setting up an ergonomic workspace, and adopting regular exercise routines. 

Patient Success Stories/Testimonials 

“This is my go-to clinic when I injure myself, have tightness due to office work/postural issues or simply need a massage. The clinic is conveniently located in the heart of Kensington with several professionals under the same roof, who can treat you as a team so you don’t have to run around town to a multitude of appointments. My husband went to see them after a bad car-cycle accident and they took care of his whiplash injury in only a few weeks. They have the knowledge, technology and are so caring and pleasant to work with. Even the front desk staff is absolutely lovely, they also direct charge so you don’t have to worry about doing manual claims to your insurances or anything which is so convenient.”

Naomi L.

“Evan and team are attentive and deliberate in providing an outstanding client experience. The care I received for acute whiplash healed me from a condition that could have resulted in longterm chronic pain. I’ve been going here for a year and a half and have never had a disappointing experience. 

If you have chronic pain, give MYo a try – they differ from most clinics by working closely together as a team. They will guide you to the forms of care (chiro, massage, physio, etc) that are most likely to help you.”

Troy B.

“While my first visit was over a year ago for an acute injury, I’ve been receiving treatments for the past six months with Dr. Evan and massage with Zack for an overuse and general neglect neck and shoulder pain and discomfort. I can say that while I’ve experienced many chiropractic, physiotherapy and massage therapy professionals over the years, MYo Lab are right up there with the best. They take the time to narrow in on the problem, and work as a true team to relieve it. Yes, there is work one must do on one’s own, but these guys are patient, professional and truly want patients to recover to their best self. Thankful to MYo Lab for their great work helping me back to where I want and need to be! ”

Mark G.

FAQs About Sciatica

What is sciatica?

Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in your body. This nerve runs from your lower back, through your hips and buttocks, and down each leg. Sciatica is not a condition itself but a symptom of an underlying issue, such as a herniated disc or spinal stenosis, causing nerve compression.

About 85 percent of the Canadian population will deal with back pain at some point in their life; however, only about 2–10 percent will actually have sciatica.

How is sciatica diagnosed?

Diagnosing sciatica typically starts with a physical examination and a discussion of your symptoms. Your Chiropractor or healthcare provider may check for pain response, muscle strength, and reflexes. Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans may be recommended to pinpoint the exact cause of the nerve compression, whether it’s a herniated disc, bone spur, or another condition.

Can chiropractors treat sciatica?

Absolutely! Chiropractors are trained to treat sciatica by addressing the root cause of the pain, often related to spinal misalignments or nerve compression. Through techniques like spinal adjustments, decompression, and targeted exercises, they work to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve and restore proper spinal function, helping you find relief without drugs or surgery.

When should you seek Chiropractic care for sciatica?

You should consider Chiropractic care if:

  • Your sciatica symptoms persist for more than a week or worsen over time.
  • You experience significant pain, tingling, or numbness that affects your daily activities.
  • You want a non-invasive, drug-free treatment option.

We recommend seeking immediate medical attention if you have severe symptoms like loss of bladder or bowel control, sudden leg weakness, or debilitating pain, as these could indicate a more serious issue requiring urgent care.

What techniques do chiropractors use to treat sciatica?

Techniques may include spinal manipulation, spinal decompression, flexion distraction, and specific exercises to alleviate pain and improve mobility.

How long does it take to see results from chiropractic treatment for sciatica?

The timeline for relief varies depending on the severity of your sciatica and your body’s response to treatment. Some of our patients notice improvement after just 3–4 sessions, while others may require a more extended treatment plan. 

Consistency with care and following our recommendations for exercises and lifestyle changes can speed up the healing process.

What should I expect during a chiropractic visit?

During your initial visit, your chiropractor will take a thorough medical history and perform a physical examination to assess your symptoms and identify the root cause of your sciatica. Based on this evaluation, we’ll develop a personalised treatment plan. This may include spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, or rehabilitative exercises. 

Expect a collaborative approach where your Chiropractor explains each step and works with you to track your progress.

Can sciatica go away on its own?

In some cases, mild sciatica may resolve without treatment within a few weeks, especially with rest, gentle stretching, and good posture. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, professional care is recommended to address the root cause and prevent long-term complications.

Is chiropractic care for sciatica safe?

Yes, chiropractic care is considered safe and effective for treating sciatica when performed by a licensed professional. It’s a non-invasive, drug-free approach that focuses on restoring function and relieving pain naturally. Your Chiropractor will ensure the techniques used are appropriate for your specific condition.

What can I do at home to support my recovery from sciatica?

We may recommend simple measures you can take at home, such as:

  • Practicing gentle stretches to relieve tension along the sciatic nerve.
  • Maintaining proper posture while sitting, standing, or lifting.
  • Using heat or ice packs to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
  • Staying active with low-impact exercises like walking or swimming to promote circulation and flexibility.

Here are some exercises you can do for your sciatica pain: 

Can chiropractic care prevent future episodes of sciatica?

Yes, regular chiropractic care can help maintain spinal alignment and improve overall biomechanics, reducing the risk of sciatica recurring. Your Chiropractor can also provide lifestyle and ergonomic recommendations to minimize strain on your lower back and sciatic nerve.

How MYo Lab Can Help

If you’re dealing with the pain and discomfort from sciatica, you can book an appointment with one of our Chiropractors. Alternatively, you can call us at (403)930-8686. We’re currently accepting new patients. 

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