What Is Sciatica?

“Sciatica” describes symptoms along the sciatic nerve pathway — typically starting in the low back or glute and traveling down the leg. Sciatica is a symptom pattern, not a diagnosis by itself.

The right plan depends on what is causing the irritation (disc, joint restriction, compression patterns, or surrounding muscle tension).

Common Causes of Sciatica

• Disc irritation or bulge patterns in the low back
• Spinal joint restriction and inflammation
• Compression-related patterns (including stenosis)
• Muscle tension/guarding in the low back, glutes, or hips
• Posture stress and prolonged sitting

Sciatica Symptoms We Commonly See

• Pain traveling into the glute, thigh, calf, or foot
• Tingling or numbness (“pins and needles”)
• Burning or electric sensations
• Symptoms worse with sitting, bending, or lifting
• Difficulty standing upright during a flare-up

How We Treat Sciatica

Your care plan depends on your exam findings and symptom pattern. Treatment may include:

• McKenzie Method to identify movements that reduce symptoms and give you home strategies
• Cox Flexion Distraction for disc/compression patterns
• Chiropractic Adjustments to improve spinal mechanics
• Functional Dry Needling for muscle guarding
• IASTM or FDM for soft tissue restriction

What to Expect at Your Appointment

• History of symptoms (onset, triggers, what helps)
• Low back + hip movement assessment
• Orthopedic tests and neurological screening when appropriate
• A clear plan based on your response to movement
• Home guidance to support recovery between visits

When to Seek Urgent Medical Evaluation

Seek immediate medical care if you experience:

• Loss of bowel or bladder control
• Numbness in the groin/saddle area
• New or worsening leg weakness (foot drop, giving way)
• Severe symptoms after trauma
• Rapidly worsening numbness or coordination changes

Sciatica FAQs

Is sciatica the same as a pinched nerve?

Often, yes. Sciatica commonly involves nerve irritation in the low back, but the underlying cause can vary — which is why the right assessment matters.

Should I stretch sciatica?

It depends on your pattern. Some stretches help; others can make symptoms worse. A targeted plan is typically more effective than generic stretching.

How long does it take to improve?

Many people improve once the right movement strategy and treatment approach is identified. Longer-standing cases may take more time.

Do I need imaging?

Not always. Imaging may be recommended if there are red flags, progressive neurological symptoms, significant trauma, or lack of improvement with conservative care.

Ready for Relief?

Schedule your appointment and let’s identify the source of irritation and build a plan to help you move confidently again.