Sciatica Treatment in Indianapolis
Relief for Radiating Lower Back & Leg Pain
Sciatica commonly describes pain or other symptoms that travel along the sciatic nerve from the lower back or buttock into the leg.
Symptoms can range from a mild ache to sharp or burning pain and may also present as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs.
At Street Chiropractic in Indianapolis, we evaluate your symptoms to help determine the cause of sciatica, what may be irritating the nerve, and develop an individualized treatment plan focused on improving movement, function, and comfort.
How We Evaluate Sciatica
Your evaluation begins with a one-on-one consultation, detailed history, and physical examination with the doctor
Depending on your symptoms, your evaluation may include orthopedic testing, neurological testing, range-of-motion assessment, movement evaluation, and imaging when clinically appropriate.
Rather than using the same treatment for every patient with sciatic pain, we use your examination findings to determine which treatment options may be appropriate for you.
How We Treat Sciatica
Treatment at Street Chiropractic is individualized based on your diagnosis, examination findings, comfort level, and goals.
Your treatment plan may incorporate:
Chiropractic Adjustments
Designed to improve joint mobility and address areas of restricted movement.
Rehabilitation & Physiotherapy
Targeted exercises can help improve strength, stability, mobility, and movement patterns.
Spinal Decompression
For appropriate patients with disc-related symptoms or nerve irritation, non-surgical spinal decompression may be incorporated into care.
Acupuncture & Electro-Acupuncture
May be incorporated to help manage pain, muscle tension, and other musculoskeletal symptoms.
Soft Tissue Treatment
Graston Technique®, cupping, and other therapies may be used when muscles and surrounding soft tissues are contributing to the problem.
Sciatica FAQs
Is sciatica the same as lower back pain?
No. Sciatica specifically refers to symptoms associated with irritation of the sciatic nerve or its contributing nerve roots. Some people with sciatica have significant back pain, while others primarily experience symptoms in the buttock or leg.
Can sciatica cause numbness and tingling?
Yes. Nerve irritation can produce numbness, tingling, burning, or other altered sensations in addition to pain.
Can a herniated disc cause sciatica?
Yes. Disc herniations are one possible cause of nerve-root irritation that can produce sciatic symptoms, although not every case of sciatica is caused by a disc problem.
When should sciatica receive immediate medical attention?
Seek prompt medical attention for significant or rapidly worsening weakness, loss of bowel or bladder control, numbness in the saddle/groin region, severe symptoms following significant trauma, or other concerning neurological changes.
Common Symptoms of Sciatica
Sciatic nerve irritation may cause:
Lower back pain
Buttock or glute pain
Pain traveling down one leg
Burning or shooting pain
Numbness or tingling
Pain in the thigh or calf
Symptoms aggravated by sitting
Weakness in the affected leg in some cases
What Causes Sciatica?
Sciatica is a description of symptoms rather than one specific diagnosis.
Potential causes or contributing factors can include disc injuries, degenerative changes, narrowing around spinal nerves, joint dysfunction, inflammation, or other conditions that irritate or place pressure on nerve tissue.
Because several conditions can create similar symptoms, identifying the source is important before determining treatment.
Find Relief From Sciatica
Radiating leg pain shouldn't be ignored.
If you're experiencing lower back pain, buttock pain, numbness, tingling, or symptoms traveling down your leg, schedule an appointment at Street Chiropractic in Indianapolis.
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We can’t wait to get you onto your Road to Recovery!