Sciatica Relief Home Program

Sciatica isn't actually a diagnosis on its own, it's a description of pain that follows the path of the sciatic nerve, usually from irritation or compression somewhere in the lower back or pelvis.

Because there are several different things that can cause it, figuring out exactly where the irritation is coming from matters more than treating the symptom in general. That's the starting point for every sciatica patient we see at Wunderlich Chiropractic.

• Shooting pain from the low back or buttock down the back of one leg

• Numbness, tingling, or a pins-and-needles feeling in the leg or foot

• Noticeable weakness in the leg

• Pain that worsens after sitting for long periods

• Symptoms that intensify with certain movements, like bending or twisting

Sciatica-type symptoms can come from more than one source, including:

• A bulging or herniated disc pressing on a nerve root

• Piriformis muscle tightness, which can mimic true sciatica

• Spinal stenosis (narrowing around the nerves)

• SI joint dysfunction

• Pregnancy-related changes in posture and pelvic alignment

A note on safety: severe or rapidly worsening leg weakness, or any loss of bladder or bowel control, is a medical emergency and needs immediate attention, not a chiropractic visit. Our exam is designed to screen for these warning signs first.

Your exam includes orthopedic and neurological testing along with digital X-rays, because whether your symptoms are coming from a disc, the SI joint, or a tight piriformis muscle changes what treatment actually makes sense.

From there, care is built around low-force techniques targeted at whatever is compressing or irritating the nerve, along with specific stretches and movement guidance to take pressure off it.

We track your progress against clear markers rather than keeping you on an indefinite plan, and if your case points to something beyond conservative care, we'll say so and help you find the right next step.

New patients start with our $49 exam: a full consultation, hands-on and neurological exam, and digital X-rays. No obligation, just answers.

We'll explain what's likely driving your symptoms and whether chiropractic care is a reasonable place to start.

What's the difference between sciatica and regular back pain?

Regular back pain generally stays in the back. Sciatica specifically travels down the leg, following the path of the sciatic nerve, and often comes with numbness or tingling that back pain alone doesn't cause.

Can chiropractic help a bulging disc?

Many disc-related sciatica cases respond well to conservative chiropractic care. Our exam and X-rays help determine whether that's likely for your specific case.

How long does sciatica take to go away?

It depends on the underlying cause. Some cases improve significantly within a few weeks of targeted care; disc-related cases can take longer. We'll give you a realistic expectation after your exam.

Is it safe to exercise with sciatica?

Certain movements help and others make it worse, depending on the cause. We'll tell you specifically what to do and what to avoid based on your exam findings.

When should I see a doctor instead of a chiropractor?

If you have severe or worsening leg weakness, numbness in the groin area, or any change in bladder or bowel control, seek medical care immediately. Our exam also screens for signs that you need imaging or a specialist beyond chiropractic care.