If you have shooting pain down your leg, numbness in your foot, or pain that makes it impossible to sit through a meeting, you are not alone, and you do not have to keep guessing what is wrong. Watch the video below to hear Dr. Megan Tomberlin explain exactly what sciatica is, why it happens, and what actually works to get rid of it.
What Is Sciatica?
Sciatica is not a diagnosis in itself. It is a symptom caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in your body. That nerve starts in your lower back, runs through your buttocks, travels down the back of your thigh, and extends all the way to your calf and foot. When something presses on it, the pain, numbness, and tingling can show up anywhere along that entire path.
Common causes of sciatic nerve compression include:
- Herniated or bulging disc in the lower back
- Piriformis syndrome (a tight muscle in your buttock pressing on the nerve)
- Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
- Spinal misalignment putting pressure on the nerve root
- Prolonged sitting with poor posture
Symptoms You Might Be Experiencing
Sciatica looks different for everyone, which is part of why it can be so confusing. You might be searching "why does my leg hurt when I walk" or "shooting pain down leg" without realizing a pinched nerve in your lower back is the source. Here are the most common symptoms:
- Sharp or burning pain from the lower back down one leg
- Numbness or tingling in the thigh, calf, or foot
- Weakness in the leg or foot
- Pain that gets worse when sitting for long periods
- Symptoms that flare up at night
- Calf cramping or tightness that feels like a muscle problem
Bilateral sciatica, meaning symptoms in both legs at the same time, is less common and should be evaluated right away, especially if you notice any changes in bladder or bowel function.
Why Waiting It Out Can Make Things Worse
Some people hope sciatica will resolve on its own, and occasionally it does within a few weeks. But without addressing the root cause, whether that is a herniated disc, piriformis tightness, or a spinal alignment issue, the condition can become chronic. Early intervention almost always leads to faster recovery and helps you avoid more aggressive options down the road.
How We Treat Sciatica at Waves of Wellness
At Waves of Wellness Chiropractic, we do not take a one-size-fits-all approach. After a thorough examination and movement assessment, we build a treatment plan specific to where your nerve compression is coming from. Our two primary treatment approaches for sciatica are:
Dry Needling (Dr. Megan Tomberlin)
Dry needling targets the tight muscles and trigger points that are compressing your sciatic nerve. By inserting thin monofilament needles directly into affected muscle tissue, we can reduce tension, calm inflammation, and restore normal nerve function. Many patients notice significant relief within just a few sessions.
Active Release Technique (Dr. Jordan Warner)
Dr. Jordan Warner is a certified Active Release Technique (ART) provider. ART is a hands-on soft tissue method that breaks up adhesions and scar tissue in the muscles and connective tissue surrounding the sciatic nerve. It is especially effective when piriformis syndrome or other soft tissue restrictions are contributing to your symptoms.
Things That Can Make Sciatica Worse
Understanding your triggers helps you manage flare-ups between appointments. Watch out for:
- Long periods of sitting, especially with poor posture
- Stress (tension in the hips and lower back increases nerve pressure)
- Sleeping in positions that compress the affected side
- Inactivity, which allows inflammation to build up
You Do Not Have to Live With This Pain
If you are dealing with sciatic pain, numbness, or tingling in the Leland, Wilmington, or Brunswick County area, Dr. Megan and Dr. Jordan are ready to help you get back to the activities you love. Call us today at (910) 859-8359