Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve. This nerve is the longest and thickest in your body, running from your lower back through your hips and buttocks, then branching down each leg. When something compresses or irritates this nerve, it can cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness anywhere along its path.
The pain typically affects only one side of your body. It can range from a mild ache to a sharp, burning sensation or even feel like an electric shock. Some people describe it as a deep, constant throb that worsens with prolonged sitting or sudden movements like coughing or sneezing.
Several conditions can lead to sciatica by putting pressure on the sciatic nerve or its roots in the lower spine:
The most common cause of sciatica occurs when the soft inner material of a spinal disc pushes through its outer layer and presses against a nerve root. This creates inflammation and irritation that travels down the leg.
This narrowing of the spinal canal can compress the nerves as they exit the spine. It often develops gradually with age and affects people over 50 more frequently.
The piriformis muscle in your buttock can tighten and irritate the sciatic nerve that runs beneath it. This is particularly common in runners and people who sit for extended periods.
As spinal discs lose hydration and height with age, they provide less cushioning between vertebrae. This can lead to bone spurs and other changes that compress nerve roots.
When one vertebra slips forward over the one below it, it can pinch the nerves exiting the spine at that level.
Sciatica often starts in the lower back or buttock and travels down the leg.
Common symptoms include
Scientific evidence strongly supports chiropractic treatment for sciatica. A landmark study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that 60% of patients with sciatica who had failed other medical treatments achieved the same degree of benefit from spinal manipulation as those who underwent surgery [2]. This research suggests that chiropractic care should be considered before more invasive interventions.
Additional research has shown that chiropractic patients with sciatica experience reduced reliance on pain medications. A 2025 study in Health Science Reports found a significant association between spinal manipulative therapy and reduced risk of opioid use disorder in patients with low back pain and sciatica [3]. This finding is particularly important given the ongoing concerns about prescription pain medication dependency.
The non-invasive nature of chiropractic treatment offers a favorable safety profile. While any treatment carries some risk, serious adverse events from chiropractic care are extremely rare, making it an appropriate first-line approach for most sciatica patients.
When you visit Brooklyn Chiropractic Care for sciatica, Dr. Patel begins with a thorough evaluation to understand your specific situation. This includes reviewing your health history, discussing your symptoms and how they affect your daily life, and performing physical and neurological examinations.
Orthopedic tests help determine which structures are involved in your sciatica. Dr. Patel may assess your reflexes, muscle strength, sensation, and range of motion. If needed, diagnostic imaging such as X-rays can provide additional information about your spinal structure.
Based on this evaluation, Dr. Patel develops a personalized treatment plan. Most patients begin feeling improvement within the first few visits, though the total number of treatments needed varies based on the severity and chronicity of your condition. Typical treatment plans involve visits two to three times per week initially, gradually decreasing as your condition improves.
Between your chiropractic appointments, these strategies can help manage your symptoms and support your recovery:
Your journey begins with a comprehensive neurological and physical examination. Dr. Patel assesses your reflexes, muscle strength, and range of motion to pinpoint the exact site of nerve compression in your lower spine.
Using the foundation of chiropractic care, we apply targeted spinal manipulations to restore proper alignment. This reduces mechanical pressure on the sciatic nerve, facilitating immediate relief and improved joint mobility.
For patients with herniated or bulging discs, we utilize specialized tables for gentle decompression. This non-thrusting technique creates negative pressure within the disc, helping to retract material away from the nerve.
We address secondary muscle tension in the piriformis and hamstrings through manual therapy. Finally, we provide customized core-stabilization exercises to strengthen your spine and prevent future sciatica flare-ups.
Many people try to wait out sciatica, hoping it will resolve on its own. While mild cases may improve with rest and home care, seeking professional evaluation is wise if your pain persists beyond a week or two, interferes with your daily activities, or keeps returning.
Early intervention often leads to faster recovery and helps prevent the condition from becoming chronic. Chronic back pain and sciatica can lead to compensatory movement patterns that create additional problems in your hips, knees, and other areas.
Chiropractic care is particularly valuable because it addresses the underlying structural issues causing your sciatica rather than simply treating symptoms. This approach provides lasting relief and reduces the likelihood of recurrence.
• New or recurring sciatic pain
• Disc related leg pain
• Pain worsened by sitting
• Medication avoidance preference
• Desire for non surgical care
Most patients experience significant improvement within 4-6 weeks of consistent treatment. However, the exact timeline depends on the severity of your condition and how long you've been experiencing symptoms. Dr. Patel will discuss your personalized treatment plan during your first visit.
Yes, chiropractic care is generally safe and effective for disc-related sciatica. Dr. Patel uses techniques like flexion-distraction that are specifically designed for patients with disc herniations. These gentle approaches avoid high-force adjustments that might aggravate the condition.
While chiropractic care addresses the underlying causes of sciatica, recurrence is possible without proper maintenance. Dr. Patel provides home exercises and lifestyle recommendations to help prevent future flare-ups. Periodic maintenance visits can also help keep your spine healthy.
Chiropractic care focuses on correcting the structural and biomechanical issues causing nerve compression rather than masking pain with medications. This drug-free approach addresses the root cause of sciatica and helps restore normal function. Research shows outcomes comparable to surgery for many patients, with significantly lower risks and costs.
While brief rest during acute flare-ups can be helpful, prolonged bed rest is not recommended. Gentle movement and activity help maintain flexibility, promote circulation, and prevent deconditioning. Low-impact activities like walking are typically encouraged, while high-impact activities should be avoided until symptoms improve.
Emergency No. : (347) 625-1246
For Any Additional Inquiries : hello@brooklynchirocare.com
Book Appointment: (347) 625-1246
Working Hours : Mon, Wed, Fri: 9:30AM - 6:00PM, Tue, Thurs: 10:00AM - 8:00PM
Emergency No. : (347) 625-1246
For Any Additional Inquiries : hello@brooklynchirocare.com
Book Appointment: (347) 625-1246
Working Hours : Mon, Wed, Fri: 9:30AM - 6:00PM, Tue, Thurs: 10:00AM - 8:00PM
(347) 625-1246
hello@brooklynchirocare.com
112 Greenpoint Ave. STE 1B, Brooklyn, NY 11222