If you’ve felt sharp, shooting pain from your lower back down the back of your leg—or numbness, tingling, even a throbbing foot—you might be dealing with sciatica. Sometimes it’s true sciatic nerve irritation (often the S1 nerve root), and other times it’s “sciatic region” pain that mimics sciatica without actual nerve compression. Knowing which one you have matters because the best treatment depends on the cause.
Why sciatica happens
- Disc issues at L5-S1 can compress the nerve root
- Stuck or irritated joints in the lower back or pelvis change mechanics
- Prolonged sitting and poor posture increase pressure on discs and nerves
- Lifting, bending, or twisting awkwardly can trigger a flare-up
- Other nerve entrapments in the leg can mimic sciatic pain
How chiropractic care helps
At Alfieri Chiropractic Clinic, we start with a thorough exam to pinpoint the source—true nerve compression or referred pain. Then we tailor care to you:
- Cox Flexion-Distraction gently decompresses the L5-S1 area to take pressure off the nerve
- Diversified, Palmer Package, and Gonstead adjustments restore motion and alignment
- Extremity adjusting helps when hips or pelvis contribute to the problem
- Simple home strategies to calm irritation and support healing
Because nerves heal slower than muscles and ligaments, patience is key—but relief often begins as soon as the pressure is reduced.
What to expect
Most people notice progressive improvement as decompression and alignment reduce nerve irritation. We’ll also coach you on posture tweaks, activity pacing, and smart lifting so you can keep results going between visits.
Smart self-care during a flare
- Short walks beat long sitting—move gently, often
- Keep the spine neutral when getting up, in/out of the car, or lifting
- Use brief icing to settle inflammation during acute phases
- Avoid heavy bending and twisting until symptoms calm
Ready to take the pressure off your sciatic nerve? Contact Alfieri Chiropractic Clinic today!
Book with Alfieri Chiropractic Clinic