Last updated: — Reviewed by Dr. Jake Parrish, DC
Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down each leg. It typically affects only one side of the body and can range from a mild ache to sharp, burning, or excruciating pain. Chiropractic care is one of the most effective non-surgical treatments for sciatica.
How We Treat Sciatica at Victory Health Center
The sciatic nerve is the longest and thickest nerve in the human body, and when it becomes compressed or irritated, the resulting pain can be debilitating. At Victory Health Center, we treat sciatica by identifying and addressing what's compressing the nerve — whether it's a herniated disc, spinal misalignment, or muscle tension — rather than simply prescribing pain medication that masks the symptoms.
What Causes Sciatica?
- Herniated or bulging lumbar disc pressing on the nerve
- Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
- Piriformis syndrome (muscle compression of the sciatic nerve)
- Spinal misalignment in the lower back
- Degenerative disc disease
- Pregnancy-related pelvic changes
- Bone spurs on the vertebrae
Common Symptoms
- Pain radiating from the lower back down through the leg
- Burning, tingling, or numbness in the leg or foot
- Sharp pain that makes standing or walking difficult
- Weakness in the affected leg
- Pain that worsens when sitting for extended periods
- Shooting pain when coughing, sneezing, or straining
Our Treatment Approach
Our sciatica treatment protocol begins with comprehensive diagnostic testing to determine the exact cause of your sciatic nerve compression. This includes X-rays, orthopedic testing, and nerve scans. Based on the findings, Dr. Jake creates a customized treatment plan that may include precise chiropractic adjustments to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve, spinal decompression therapy to address disc-related compression, and targeted rehabilitation exercises to strengthen supporting muscles and prevent recurrence. Many of our sciatica patients experience significant improvement within the first few weeks of care.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Most patients begin experiencing relief within 2-4 weeks of starting care, though complete resolution depends on the underlying cause and severity. Disc-related sciatica may take longer to fully resolve than muscle-related compression.
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