Sciatica describes pain that travels along the path of the sciatic nerve, from the low back or buttock down the back of the leg. It is a description of symptoms rather than a diagnosis on its own, and the cause matters: an irritated disc, tight muscles around the hip, or joint problems in the low back can all produce similar pain. Finding out which one is behind yours is the first step.
What sciatica can feel like
- Pain that radiates from the low back or buttock down the back of the thigh, sometimes past the knee
- Burning, electric, or shooting sensations in the leg
- Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
- Pain that gets worse with sitting, coughing, sneezing, or bending forward
- Symptoms on one side, though not always
Get emergency care right away if leg pain comes with loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness in the groin, genitals, or inner thighs, or leg weakness that is getting worse, such as a foot that drags or catches when you walk. These can be signs of serious nerve compression that needs immediate medical treatment.
When chiropractic care may be a good fit
Many cases of sciatica improve over a period of weeks to months with conservative care. Chiropractic care may be a good fit when your symptoms are stable or improving, your exam does not show significant or progressing nerve changes, and you want a hands-on, movement-based approach.
If your symptoms are severe, getting worse, or not improving, Dr. Corey will recommend a physician's evaluation. Chiropractic care can work alongside medical care when that is appropriate.
How Dr. Corey evaluates sciatica
Your 75–90 minute first visit starts with a detailed history, then an exam that pays close attention to your nerves:
- Reflexes, strength, and sensation in both legs, compared side to side
- Nerve tension tests that help show whether a nerve root is irritated
- Movement testing of the low back, pelvis, and hips
- Assessment of the muscles around the hip and glutes
These findings help separate nerve-root irritation from pain referred by muscles or joints, and they show whether you need a referral before care begins.
What treatment may include
- Gentle adjustments or drop-table techniques for the low back and pelvis, chosen for comfort
- Muscle work for the hips, glutes, and low back
- Nerve mobility and core exercises matched to your exam findings
- Guidance on positions and activities that ease symptoms, and which to avoid for now
Care is adjusted based on how you respond. If your leg symptoms are getting worse instead of better, the plan changes, and that may mean a referral.
Learn about soft-tissue and muscle work →
What your first appointment looks like
Book online, complete your intake forms ahead of time, and plan for 75–90 minutes. The intake visit includes your history, exam, and a treatment plan, plus treatment that day if it is appropriate. Pricing is flat and published before you book. Golden Bear is out-of-network with insurance, and a superbill is available on request.
Frequently asked questions
Should I rest until sciatica goes away?
Prolonged bed rest usually is not recommended. Staying as active as your symptoms allow, with some modifications, tends to help more. Your exam will show which movements are helpful for you right now.
Will I need an MRI?
Most people with sciatica do not need an MRI right away. Imaging is usually reserved for severe or worsening symptoms, red-flag signs, or situations where injections or surgery are being considered. If you need imaging, Dr. Corey will refer you.
Is sciatica the same as a herniated disc?
Not necessarily. A disc can irritate a nerve root and cause sciatica, but tight muscles around the hip and joint problems in the low back can cause similar symptoms. The exam helps tell them apart.