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How Can a Chiropractor Help With Sciatica?

How Can a Chiropractor Help With Sciatica?

That shooting pain from your lower back down your leg can make even simple activities unbearable. You’ve likely tried every solution possible to alleviate this pain, but what about chiropractors in New York? Can a chiropractor help with sciatica pain?

In this guide, No-Fault Doctors will answer your questions in detail. 

Understanding Sciatica and How Chiropractic Treatments Can Help

Back pain often stems from bulging discs in the lower spine, with approximately 1% to 3% of people experiencing this condition yearly. Sciatica happens when your sciatic nerve gets squeezed or irritated. The nerve starts at your lower back, goes through your hips and buttocks, and runs down your legs.

When something puts pressure on this nerve, you may experience sharp, shooting pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness. Several conditions can trigger sciatic nerve pain, including:

  • Herniated or slipped spinal discs
  • Bone spurs pressing on the nerve
  • Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spine)
  • Piriformis syndrome (when a muscle in your buttocks irritates the nerve)
  • Prolonged sitting or poor posture

Can a chiropractor help with sciatica? Yes, chiropractic care for sciatica aims to address the underlying cause of your pain.

Effective Chiropractic Techniques for Sciatic Nerve Pain Relief

Chiropractors are specially trained in the musculoskeletal system. Your provider will first conduct a thorough examination to identify the cause of your pinched nerve. This may include reviewing your medical history and possibly taking X-rays to get a clear picture of your spine’s condition.

Once your chiropractor has diagnosed the cause, they can employ several effective techniques to provide relief. Spinal adjustment treatments are non-invasive and drug-free.

According to studies, adjusting the spine by hand can successfully treat lower back pain, whether it’s recent, developing, or long-lasting. A lower back pain chiropractor uses gentle manipulations to help restore misaligned vertebral discs.

Spinal adjustments help with the following:

  • Allowing a herniated disc to move back into its proper position
  • Taking pressure off the sciatic nerve
  • Improving spinal movement
  • Reducing inflammation around the nerve
  • Easing muscle spasms

About three-quarters of recent chiropractic patients (77%) rated their treatment as “very effective.”

What To Expect During Your Chiropractic Treatment for Sciatica

Looking at Complementary Therapies

Chiropractors offer several complementary therapies:

  • Therapeutic massages to release tight muscles and trigger points
  • Hot and cold therapy to reduce inflammation and ease pain
  • Ultrasound treatments to improve circulation and promote healing
  • Specific stretches and exercises to strengthen supporting muscles
  • Lifestyle recommendations to prevent re-injury

What To Expect During Your Chiropractic Treatment for Sciatica

When you visit a chiropractor for sciatica, your first appointment will typically be longer than subsequent visits. On your initial appointment, the chiropractor will ask detailed questions about your symptoms and health history, and perform a physical examination to test your reflexes and muscle strength. They may also request imaging tests to pinpoint the source of your discomfort

After diagnosis, your chiropractor will develop a personalized chiropractic sciatica treatment plan. This plan will outline the specific techniques they’ll use and how many sessions you might need. Treatment sessions typically last 15 to 30 minutes.

You might feel some mild soreness after your first few adjustments. This is normal and usually subsides quickly.

Your chiropractor will also likely recommend exercises to do at home between appointments. These physical activities strengthen your treatment’s effectiveness and accelerate healing.

Are You Looking for Chiropractors in New York?

If you’re still wondering, “Where can I find a sciatica chiropractor near me?” or “Can a chiropractor help with sciatica?” get in touch with a chiropractor team today. The chiropractors for lower back pain listed in our directory will happily answer all your questions. 

Doctors listed in our directory accept most insurance plans, including workers’ compensation, no-fault, and PIP (personal injury protection). Same-day appointments may be available. To schedule a consultation for non-surgical sciatica care, contact No-Fault Doctors at (888) 970-5065 or find a provider by using our directory.

FAQs

Take a look at our list of most commonly asked questions and answers.

What Is the Best Position To Sit in With Sciatica?

Keep your knees and hips level while sitting, and avoid crossing your legs to reduce pressure. Use a chair with good back support and place a small cushion behind your lower back.

What Are the 4 Stages of Sciatica?

Early-stage sciatica involves occasional pain, while stage two brings more frequent discomfort that may start affecting daily activities. The third stage features intense pain with muscle weakness, and the final stage can include severe pain with nerve damage.

Can a Chiropractor Help With Sciatica Pain?

Seeing a chiropractor for sciatica can be helpful for many people. Chiropractors use techniques like spinal adjustments for sciatica, stretches, and exercises to reduce pressure.