Can a Chiropractor Help with Sciatica? Discover the Secrets!

Last Updated on May 19, 2023 by Dr. Tiffany Egan

As a chiropractor myself AND someone who’s dealt with sciatica in the past, I know how debilitating it can be. The pain can radiate from your lower back down to your feet, making it difficult to sit, stand, lie down or even do anything at all! And I know from personal experience that when you’re dealing with that kind of pain, you’re willing to try just about anything to find relief. That’s why many people turn to chiropractors for help. But how can a chiropractor help with sciatica? I’ll help you uncover the secrets below!

What is Sciatica and What Causes it?

Before we dive into whether or not a chiropractor can help with sciatica, let’s first talk about what sciatica is and what causes it. Sciatica is a type of pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back down to your legs and feet. The pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or even pregnancy.

Can a Chiropractor Help with Sciatica?

The short answer is yes, a chiropractor can help with sciatica. Chiropractic care focuses on the musculoskeletal system, which includes the spine, muscles, and joints. By adjusting and manipulating the spine, a chiropractor can help alleviate the pressure on the sciatic nerve, which can reduce pain and inflammation.

Can Chiropractor Make Sciatica Worse?

While it’s possible for a chiropractor to make sciatica worse, it’s not common. Chiropractors are trained professionals who use gentle, non-invasive techniques to adjust the spine. However, if you have a pre-existing condition that makes chiropractic care risky, such as osteoporosis or spinal cord compression, your chiropractor may recommend against treatment.

How Does Chiropractic Care for Sciatica Work?

Chiropractic care for sciatica typically involves a combination of spinal adjustments, stretches, and exercises. The goal is to alleviate pressure on the sciatic nerve and improve the function of the musculoskeletal system. During a chiropractic appointment, your chiropractor will first perform a physical exam to determine the cause of your sciatica. They may also order imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI, to get a better look at your spine.

Can a Chiropractor Help with Sciatica During Pregnancy?

I’ve been a chiropractor for over 10 years who’s worked with many pregnant women and who’s also experienced sciatica pain during pregnancy. These are some pros and cons of chiropractic care during pregnancy that you can look into before considering this approach.

Expecting mothers can benefit significantly from chiropractic care. It not only helps alleviate sciatica and sciatica related pain but it also enhances posture, promotes better sleep and reduces stress. Prenatal Chiropractors are specifically trained to cater to pregnant women and can give adjustments that are safe for both the mother and the baby.

What Does the Research Say About Chiropractic Care for Sciatica?

There have been several studies that have looked at the effectiveness of chiropractic care for sciatica. One study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that chiropractic care was just as effective as surgery for treating sciatica caused by a herniated disc. Another study published in the European Spine Journal found that chiropractic care was more effective than physical therapy for reducing pain and improving function in patients with chronic low back pain, which can often be a contributing factor to sciatica.

Chiropractic Techniques for Sciatica Relief

There are several chiropractic techniques that can be used to help alleviate sciatica pain, including:

• Spinal adjustments: This involves using gentle, controlled force to realign the spine and alleviate pressure on the sciatic nerve.
• Flexion-distraction technique: This involves using a specialized table to stretch and decompress the spine, which can alleviate pressure on the sciatic nerve.
• Ultrasound therapy: This involves using high-frequency sound waves to stimulate blood flow and reduce inflammation in the affected area.
• Webster technique: This special technique is specifically for pregnancy and is designed to help reduce intrauterine constraint and improve the mother’s posture.

What to Expect During a Chiropractic Visit for Sciatica

During your first chiropractic visit for sciatica, your chiropractor will perform a thorough physical exam and may order imaging tests to get a better look at your spine. They will then develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Treatment may involve a combination of spinal adjustments, stretches, exercises, and other therapies, such as ultrasound therapy or heat therapy. Your chiropractor will also provide you with tips for managing your symptoms at home.

How Many Treatments for Sciatica with a Chiropractor?

The number of treatments needed for sciatica with a chiropractor will vary depending on the severity and cause of your sciatica. Some people may experience significant relief after just a few sessions, while others may need ongoing treatment over several weeks or months. Your chiropractor will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs.

How Long for a Chiropractor to Fix Sciatica?

Again, the length of time it takes for a chiropractor to fix sciatica will depend on the severity and cause of your sciatica. Some people may experience significant relief after just a few sessions, while others may need ongoing treatment over several weeks or months. You can learn more about, “How to Spot Signs of Improving Sciatica.” It’s also important to remember that chiropractic care is just one tool in the toolbox when it comes to treating sciatica, and it may take a combination of treatments to achieve long-term relief.

Other Unexpected Amazing Benefits of Chiropractic Care

While being treated for sciatica by a chiropractor, you may find that other things improve as well. These other benefits include improved flexibility, better posture and coordination, stronger immune system, pain relief from common conditions such as headaches and back pain, better digestion and elimination, increased energy levels, and overall better health. Chiropractic care has also been known to reduce stress levels, improve sleep quality, help with reproductive issues and much more!

Sciatica Adjustment at Home

Some people believe that they are able to adjust themselves at home. They may hear a “crack or pop” while they bend or twist. However, that noise does not technically mean that you’re “adjusting yourself.” Adjustments from a chiropractor are to a specific part of the spine. So, it’s important to seek professional help for sciatica. BUT, there are some things you can do at home to alleviate your symptoms. These include:

• Stretching: Gentle stretching can help alleviate pressure on the sciatic nerve and improve flexibility in the affected area.
• Ice and heat therapy: Alternating between ice and heat can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
• Maintaining good posture: Poor posture can exacerbate sciatica pain, so it’s important to maintain good posture throughout the day.

Other Treatment Options for Sciatica

In addition to chiropractic care, there are several other treatment options for sciatica, including:

• Physical therapy: This involves exercises and stretches designed to improve mobility and reduce pain.
• Medications: Over-the-counter pain medications or prescription medications may be used to manage sciatica pain.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying issue causing sciatica.

Risks and Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Sciatica

Like any medical treatment, chiropractic care for sciatica comes with both risks and benefits. The benefits of chiropractic care include reduced pain and inflammation, improved mobility and flexibility, and a non-invasive treatment option. The risks of chiropractic care are minimal but may include soreness or discomfort following treatment.

Should I go to a Traditional Medical Doctor or Chiropractor for Sciatica?

Whether you should go to a traditional medical doctor or chiropractor for sciatica will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Traditional medical doctors may prescribe medications or recommend surgery to treat sciatica, while chiropractors focus on non-invasive techniques to alleviate pressure on the sciatic nerve. Some people may find that a combination of traditional medical treatment and chiropractic care is the most effective approach.

Finding a Qualified Chiropractor for Sciatica Care

If you’re considering chiropractic care for sciatica, it’s important to find a qualified chiropractor who has experience treating this condition. Look for a chiropractor who is licensed and has a good reputation in your community. You may also want to ask for referrals from friends or family members who have received chiropractic care in the past.

Conclusion

Sciatica can be a debilitating condition, but chiropractic care can be a highly effective treatment option. By alleviating pressure on the sciatic nerve, chiropractic care can reduce pain and inflammation and improve overall mobility and flexibility. If you’re considering chiropractic care for sciatica, be sure to find a qualified chiropractor who can develop a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.