What Is Sciatica?
Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in the body, which runs from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down each leg. It’s usually caused by compression or irritation of the nerve roots in the lower spine.
Unlike general back pain, sciatica typically affects only one side of the body and is often described as a shooting, burning, or electric sensation rather than a dull ache.
Common Causes of Sciatica
- Herniated or bulging disc — the most common cause, when disc material presses directly on a nerve root.
- Spinal stenosis — narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on the nerve roots, more common with age.
- Degenerative disc disease — wear on the lower spine’s discs that can lead to nerve irritation over time.
- Piriformis syndrome — when a muscle deep in the buttock spasms and irritates the nearby sciatic nerve.
- Spondylolisthesis — when a vertebra slips out of place and compresses a nerve root.
- Prolonged sitting or poor posture — can aggravate an already-irritated nerve.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Pain radiating from the lower back through the buttock and down one leg
- A burning, shooting, or electric-shock sensation
- Numbness or tingling along the path of the nerve
- Weakness in the leg or foot
- Pain that worsens with sitting, coughing, or sneezing
- Symptoms typically on only one side of the body
When to See a Doctor
Most sciatica improves with conservative care over several weeks. But some symptoms call for prompt evaluation.
Seek care promptly if:
- Sudden, severe weakness in the leg
- Numbness in the groin or inner thigh
- Loss of bladder or bowel control — seek emergency care immediately
- Pain following a significant fall or injury
- Symptoms that worsen rapidly or don’t improve after several weeks
If any of these apply to you, it’s worth getting evaluated rather than waiting it out.
How We Treat Sciatica at Kyro Care
Every case starts with a physical exam to identify exactly where the nerve is being affected — the right treatment depends on the underlying cause. Once we understand what’s driving your symptoms, treatment may include:
Chiropractic adjustment
Relieves pressure on the sciatic nerve by restoring proper alignment and motion to the lower spine.
Targeted stretches and exercises
Reduces tension on the nerve and strengthens the muscles that support the lower back.
Soft-tissue therapy
Addresses muscle tightness, including the piriformis muscle, that can contribute to nerve irritation.
Activity modification
Practical guidance on sitting, standing, and movement patterns that reduce ongoing nerve irritation.
We focus on conservative, non-surgical care first, and most patients see meaningful improvement within four to six weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does sciatica take to go away? +
Most cases improve within four to six weeks with conservative care, though the timeline depends on the underlying cause and how long symptoms have been present.
Is walking good or bad for sciatica? +
Gentle walking is usually helpful and can ease symptoms for many people, though high-impact activity or prolonged sitting can make things worse. We can help you figure out what’s safe for your specific case.
Can sciatica happen on both sides at once? +
It’s uncommon — sciatica typically affects one side of the body. Bilateral symptoms can sometimes indicate a more significant issue and are worth a prompt evaluation.
Do I need surgery for sciatica? +
Most cases resolve with conservative, non-surgical care. Surgery is generally only considered when symptoms are severe, progressively worsening, or haven’t responded to several months of conservative treatment.
What’s the difference between sciatica and a pinched nerve? +
Sciatica is a specific type of pinched nerve — it always involves the sciatic nerve. “Pinched nerve” is a broader term that can refer to nerve compression anywhere in the body.
Can a herniated disc heal on its own? +
Many herniated discs improve over time as the body reabsorbs the protruding material, especially with conservative care to manage symptoms in the meantime.
