Sciatica: How a Chiropractor Can Help
If you’ve ever experienced sharp pain running from your lower back down your leg, you may have had sciatica. It can be frustrating, painful, and sometimes even frightening. The good news is that with the right care, most people recover well — and chiropractic can play an important role.
What is Sciatica?
Sciatica isn’t a condition in itself — it’s a set of symptoms caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in your body. The sciatic nerve starts in the lower back, passes through the hips and buttocks, and travels down each leg.
When the nerve is compressed or irritated, you may feel:
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Sharp or shooting pain in the lower back, buttock, or down the leg
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Tingling, numbness, or “pins and needles”
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Weakness in the leg or foot
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Pain that gets worse with sitting or standing for long periods
What Causes Sciatica?
Common causes include:
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Disc herniation or bulge in the lower spine
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Spinal misalignment or restricted movement in the vertebrae
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Muscle spasm or tightness (often in the piriformis muscle)
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Degenerative changes like arthritis narrowing the spinal canal
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Postural strain or injuries that overload the lower back
How a Chiropractor Can Help with Sciatica
Many people search for a chiropractor for sciatica because chiropractic care focuses on the spine and nervous system — the exact areas involved.
1. Careful Assessment
A chiropractor will start with a thorough history, physical exam, and often orthopaedic or neurological tests. The goal is to find the true source of nerve irritation, not just treat the symptoms.
2. Spinal Adjustments
Gentle, targeted adjustments can restore motion to restricted joints, reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve, and improve spinal alignment. Many patients notice pain relief and greater mobility after care.
3. Muscle and Soft Tissue Techniques
Tight muscles in the hips and glutes can compress the sciatic nerve. Chiropractors may use soft tissue release, stretching, or trigger point therapy to ease tension.
4. Posture and Lifestyle Advice
Your chiropractor can help you with:
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Ergonomic adjustments at work/home
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Core strengthening and stabilisation exercises
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Stretching routines to keep the hips and spine mobile
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Activity modifications to avoid flare-ups
5. Holistic Support
Because sciatica often recurs, chiropractic care looks at long-term strategies — not just a quick fix — to keep your spine and nervous system functioning well.
The Bottom Line
Sciatica can be painful, but it doesn’t have to take over your life. By addressing the underlying spinal and muscular causes, chiropractic care can provide relief and help prevent future episodes.
If you’re searching for a chiropractor for sciatica in Christchurch, our team at Connect Chiropractic would love to help you find relief and get back to living life without nerve pain.
Book your appointment via the link below and take the first step toward better health, better movement, and better function.