Sciatica: What It Is, Causes & Chiropractic Treatment

A sharp shooting pain from your lower back down your leg — that’s sciatica. Simple activities like sitting, driving, or sleeping become a struggle. The good news? For most people, chiropractic care offers a safe, drug-free path to relief.

What Is Sciatica?

Sciatica is a symptom of irritation of the sciatic nerve — the largest nerve in the body. It runs from your lower back through your buttock and down your leg. Symptoms include shooting pain, numbness, pins and needles, and leg weakness.

Common Causes

• Disc bulge/herniation — most common, pressing on nerve roots at L4-L5 or L5-S1
• Piriformis syndrome — tight muscle in the buttock compressing the nerve
• Spinal stenosis — narrowing of the spinal canal, more common over 60

How Chiropractic Treats Sciatica

Spinal Manipulation

Precise adjustments restore joint movement and reduce nerve irritation. Research shows 55% of patients become pain-free with active manipulation vs 20% simulated.

Soft Tissue Therapy

Releasing tight muscles like the piriformis that compress the sciatic nerve pathway.

Exercise and Advice

Targeted strengthening and stretches to support your spine, plus ergonomic adjustments for lasting relief.

Does It Work?

Success rates reach up to 85% for acute cases. 80-90% of sciatica cases resolve without surgery with conservative care.

Ready for relief? Call (08) 9379 3838 or visit thewellnessplace.com.au. 9 Old Perth Road, Bassendean.