Sciatica relief in Long Beach, starting with where the nerve is irritated.

What sciatica feels like

The sciatic nerve runs from the lower spine through the buttock and down the back of each leg. When it is compressed or irritated anywhere along that path, people describe it in very different ways.

• A sharp or burning pain from the buttock down the back of the thigh or calf
• Tingling, pins and needles, or numbness in the leg or foot
• Pain that is worse sitting, driving, coughing or sneezing
• A leg that feels heavy or weak after standing or walking
• Symptoms usually on one side, sometimes switching sides

Where sciatic pain can come from

Common sources include a bulging or herniated lumbar disc, narrowing around the nerve roots, irritated joints in the low back or pelvis, and tight deep hip muscles such as the piriformis. Each one responds to a different plan, which is why a careful exam comes before any treatment.

Long hours sitting in traffic or at a desk, heavy lifting, and sudden increases in training are frequent triggers we hear about from Long Beach patients.

How we approach sciatica care

• Orthopedic and neurological testing to locate the likely source and check nerve function
• Gentle chiropractic adjustments and mobilization chosen for your findings
• Nerve-friendly movement and positions that reduce irritation during the day
• Progressive rehab to strengthen the core and hips so symptoms are less likely to return
• Referral for imaging or a medical consult when symptoms are severe or not improving