Sciatica is a common and often painful condition that can significantly affect daily activities. At Complete Chiropractic, we frequently see patients who are dealing with leg pain, numbness, or burning sensations and are looking for conservative, non-surgical options.
Many people are surprised to learn that chiropractic care may help relieve sciatica by addressing the underlying spinal and mechanical causes rather than just masking symptoms.
What Is Sciatica?
Sciatica refers to pain that travels along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips, buttocks, and down each leg. It typically affects one side of the body.
Common symptoms include:
- Sharp or burning pain in the lower back or leg
- Pain that worsens with sitting or standing too long
- Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
- Weakness in the leg
Sciatica is not a diagnosis itself — it is a symptom of an underlying issue.
Common Causes of Sciatica
Sciatic nerve irritation is often related to spinal or joint dysfunction, including:
- Disc bulges or herniations
- Spinal joint restriction
- Muscle tension or imbalance
- Poor posture
- Degenerative changes in the lower spine
Identifying the cause is essential for effective care.
How Chiropractic Care Helps Sciatica
Chiropractic care focuses on improving spinal alignment, joint motion, and nervous system function. When spinal joints are restricted or irritated, surrounding tissues can inflame and place pressure on nearby nerves.
At Complete Chiropractic, care for sciatica may include:
- Spinal adjustments to improve joint mobility
- Reducing pressure and irritation around the sciatic nerve
- Improving posture and movement patterns
- Addressing muscle tension contributing to nerve compression
By improving how the spine moves and functions, the body is better able to reduce inflammation and heal naturally.
Is Chiropractic Care a Good Alternative to Surgery?
Many patients seek chiropractic care for sciatica because they want to avoid surgery or long-term medication use when possible.
While not every case is the same, conservative care is often recommended before considering invasive options. Chiropractic care may be appropriate for many patients, especially when symptoms are related to mechanical or postural issues.
If imaging or referral is needed, that will be discussed.
How Long Does It Take to See Improvement?
Response time varies depending on:
- How long symptoms have been present
- Severity of nerve irritation
- Consistency of care
- Daily activities and posture
Some patients notice improvement within the first few visits, while others experience gradual relief over several weeks.
What You May Notice as Sciatica Improves
Progress often includes:
- Decreased leg pain
- Reduced numbness or tingling
- Improved ability to sit, stand, or walk
- Better range of motion
- Fewer flare-ups
Function typically improves before pain completely resolves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can chiropractic really help sciatica?
Many patients report improvement when spinal and mechanical contributors are addressed.
Is chiropractic safe for sciatica?
Chiropractic care is widely used and considered safe when provided by a licensed chiropractor after proper evaluation.
Do I need imaging before starting care?
Not always. Imaging is determined on a case-by-case basis depending on symptoms and clinical findings.
Will I need ongoing care?
Some patients require short-term care, while others benefit from maintenance to prevent recurrence.
The Bottom Line
Sciatica can be frustrating and disruptive, but it doesn’t always require surgery or heavy medication. Chiropractic care focuses on restoring spinal function, reducing nerve irritation, and supporting long-term recovery.
If you’re searching for chiropractic care for sciatica in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the team at Complete Chiropractic is happy to help answer your questions and determine whether care may be appropriate for you.