Avoid These 5 Common Sciatica Mistakes: Expert Tips from Waves of Wellness Chiropractic in Leland, NC

If you’re dealing with persistent sciatica pain around Leland, NC or nearby areas like Wilmington and Southport, you know how debilitating it can be. To help, Dr. Megan Tomberlin of Waves of Wellness Chiropractic has created an informative video revealing the five most common mistakes people make that actually worsen their sciatica pain — and what you can do instead. Below, watch the video and read on for expert advice on effective sciatica care in the Leland region.

What is Sciatica and Why Is Proper Treatment Important?

Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back down through your hips, buttocks, and legs. It typically occurs when the nerve is compressed or irritated by conditions like:

  • Herniated discs

  • Spinal stenosis

  • Piriformis syndrome

Without proper diagnosis and treatment, sciatica symptoms can progress from mild tingling to severe, debilitating pain that disrupts daily life.

The 5 Most Common Sciatica Mistakes to Avoid

1. Extended Bed Rest
Too much rest weakens your core muscles, tightens hip flexors, and leads to poor blood flow, worsening inflammation and delaying recovery.

2. Ignoring Early Warning Signs
Symptoms like lower back tightness and slight tingling should never be ignored. Early intervention improves recovery speed.

3. Doing the Wrong Exercises
Not all stretches or exercises help. Some, especially generic online routines, may increase nerve pressure and worsen symptoms.

4. Relying Only on Pain Medication
Medications mask symptoms but do not address the root cause, allowing nerve compression issues to worsen.

5. Waiting Too Long to Get Professional Help
Nerves don’t heal quickly. Prolonged compression increases the risk of chronic pain and longer recovery.

How Waves of Wellness Chiropractic Treats Sciatica Differently

At Waves of Wellness, located conveniently in Leland, NC, Dr. Megan Tomberlin and the team:

  • Use specific diagnostic testing to precisely identify the cause of your sciatica

  • Provide personalized treatment plans focused on the root cause, not just symptom relief

  • Offer advanced soft tissue therapy, including Active Release Technique by Dr. Jordan Warner

This comprehensive approach aims for faster and more lasting pain relief.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sciatica

Q: How soon should I see a chiropractor for sciatica?
A: Early treatment is crucial. The sooner nerve compression is addressed, the better your chances of full recovery.

Q: Can sciatica get worse without treatment?
A: Yes, untreated sciatica can worsen and lead to chronic nerve pain and mobility issues.

Q: Will exercises alone fix my sciatica?
A: Not always. The right exercises depend on the cause of nerve compression and should be guided by a healthcare professional.

Q: Are pain medications a good long-term solution?
A: No. Pain medications only mask symptoms and do not treat underlying issues.

Q: What kind of diagnostic tests might I expect?
A: Imaging like MRI or X-ray and physical examination to determine disc issues, spinal stenosis, or other causes.

Additional Tips for Managing Sciatica Pain at Home

  • Maintain gentle movement and avoid prolonged sitting or lying down

  • Use heat or cold packs to manage inflammation and muscle tightness

  • Practice proper posture and ergonomics during work or daily activities

  • Follow any personalized home exercises recommended by your chiropractor

Contact Waves of Wellness Chiropractic in Leland, NC Today

If you or a loved one are suffering from sciatica symptoms like shooting leg pain, numbness, or tingling, don’t wait to get professional help. The team at Waves of Wellness is here to help you live pain-free again.

Call now to schedule your evaluation: (910) 859-8359
Visit us: 473 Olde Waterford Way, Suite 118, Leland, NC 28451
Email: [email protected]

Medical Disclaimer: This blog post and video content are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider about any medical condition or symptoms. If you are experiencing pain or other health issues, seek immediate medical attention.