SCIATICA
What Is Sciatica?
Sciatica is pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve — the longest nerve in the body, running from the lower back through the buttock and down each leg. It is different from a typical back pain. When this nerve is compressed, irritated, or inflamed, the result is pain that can range from a dull ache to a sharp, burning, or electric sensation.
Sciatica isn't a diagnosis — it's a symptom. The question that matters is: what's compressing the nerve?
Common Causes of Sciatic
Nerve Pain
Lumbar subluxation — Misalignment in the lower spine creating direct or indirect pressure on the nerve roots that form the sciatic nerve.
Disc issues — Bulging or herniated discs in the lumbar spine that press on adjacent nerve roots.
Piriformis syndrome — Tightness in the piriformis muscle (deep in the buttock) that compresses the sciatic nerve as it passes underneath or through the muscle.
SI joint dysfunction — Misalignment in the sacroiliac joint creating inflammation and nerve irritation in the pelvic region.
Pelvic misalignment — Structural imbalance in the pelvis that shifts load distribution and creates nerve compression.
In most cases, the root issue is structural — and that's exactly what chiropractic is designed to correct.
How Chiropractic Helps Sciatica
Dr. Jennifer assesses the lumbar spine, pelvis, and sacroiliac joints to identify the specific structural pattern compressing your sciatic nerve. INSiGHT scans provide objective data on nerve function and stress patterns in the area.
Gentle adjustments correct the misalignment, reduce pressure on the nerve, and allow the surrounding muscles and tissues to release the guarding patterns that develop around sciatic compression. As alignment improves, inflammation decreases and the nerve pathway clears.
What to Expect
Your first visit includes a focused assessment of the lumbar and pelvic region, INSiGHT scans, and orthopedic testing to pinpoint the source of nerve compression. Dr. Jennifer will explain exactly what's causing your sciatica and how the care plan will address it.
Most patients experience progressive improvement — less pain, better mobility, fewer flare-ups — as the structural cause is corrected over the course of care.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes. Sciatica is a nerve compression issue, and chiropractic care addresses the structural misalignment that's creating that compression — whether it's lumbar subluxation, disc involvement, piriformis tightness, or SI joint dysfunction.
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It depends on the cause and severity. Some patients experience significant relief within a few visits. More complex cases — especially those involving disc issues — may require several weeks of consistent care.
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Most commonly: lumbar misalignment, disc herniation or bulging, piriformis syndrome, or SI joint dysfunction. All involve structural pressure on the sciatic nerve that chiropractic care is designed to correct.
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Yes. Dr. Jennifer uses gentle, targeted adjustments adapted to your specific condition. Techniques are chosen based on the cause of your sciatica and your comfort level.