Calgary Chiropractors Explain
Sciatica is one of the most common reasons Calgarians seek chiropractic care. The pain can be intense, frustrating, and limit everything from sitting at work to staying active on weekends.
At Adjusted For Life Chiropractic Health Centre in northwest Calgary, we help patients understand what’s truly causing their sciatic pain and provide treatment options that support quick relief with long-term resolution.
What Exactly Is Sciatica?
“Sciatica” describes pain caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in the body. It runs from the lower back through the hips, glutes, and down the leg.
Sciatica is not a condition on its own. Sciatica is a symptom of an underlying issue, such as:
- A lumbar disc injury
- Joint restrictions in the lower back or pelvis
- Muscular tension or irritation of the piriformis
- Inflammation around the nerve
- Repetitive strain or poor movement habits
Understanding the root cause is key to effective treatment. Without knowing what’s causing the sciatica, the correct treatment is less likely to be provided.
Common Symptoms of Sciatica
Sciatic nerve irritation can feel different for everyone, but typical symptoms include:
- Sharp or shooting pain down the leg
- Tingling or numbness in the leg or foot
- Lower back ache or stiffness
- Pain that worsens with sitting
- Pain that improves when walking or moving
- Weakness in the leg (in more severe cases)
Symptoms may range from mild discomfort to severe pain that disrupts daily activity.
Why Does Sciatica Happen?
Sciatica often develops due to a mix of mobility issues, muscular tension, and stress on the lumbar spine. Some of the most common causes include:
Disc Herniation or Bulging
A disc can irritate or inflame a nerve root.
Joint Restrictions in the Spine or Pelvis
When a joint doesn’t move properly, surrounding tissues can become irritated and affect the sciatic nerve.
Piriformis Syndrome
The piriformis muscle (deep in the glutes) can tighten and irritate the sciatic nerve.
Prolonged Sitting
Many Calgary office workers sit for long periods, increasing pressure on the lower spine.
Overuse or athletic Injuries
Running, hiking, skiing, and lifting can overload tissues if mobility or stability is lacking.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help Sciatica
At Adjusted For Life Chiropractic Health Centre, we take a science-based, functional approach to treating sciatica. Treatment typically includes:
1. Improving Joint Mobility
Chiropractic adjustments help restore movement to the lumbar spine and pelvis. This reduces pressure and irritation around the sciatic nerve.
2. Reducing Muscle and Nerve Tension
Tight glute, hip flexor, or low-back muscles can worsen sciatic symptoms. These tight muscles apply compression on the nerve creating further irritation. Hands-on muscle release and mobility work can help relieve strain.
3. Restoring Proper Movement Patterns
We assess how you sit, stand, walk, lift, and exercise — because movement habits often contribute to sciatic irritation.
4. Customized Home Exercise Plan
Rehab exercises help support long-term improvement. This may include hip mobility, core strength, and nerve flossing techniques.
5. Education on Activity Modifications
For active Calgarians, small changes in training or daily routine can make a big difference in recovery.
When Should You See a Chiropractor for Sciatica?
Chiropractic care is a great option if you’re experiencing:
- Leg pain that travels below the knee
- Numbness or tingling
- Sciatica that worsens with sitting
- Recurrent back/leg pain during activity
- Pain that affects work or workouts
What to Expect at Your First Visit
Your first appointment at our Calgary chiropractic clinic includes:
- A thorough health and movement history
- Hands-on orthopedic & neurological testing
- Assessment of joint mobility and muscular tension
- A personalized treatment plan
Why Choose Adjusted For Life Chiropractic Health Centre for Sciatica Treatment?
Calgary patients choose our clinic because we focus on:
- Evidence-based chiropractic care
- Science-backed movement assessments
- Treating joint restrictions, not “subluxations”
- Active rehabilitation for long-term results
- Supporting office workers and active adults alike
When Sciatica Requires Urgent Medical Care
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Loss of bowel or bladder control
- Severe or worsening weakness in the legs
- Numbness in the groin or inner thigh
- Trauma-related injury
Ready to Get Relief From Sciatica?
If sciatic pain is keeping you from work, sleep, or your active lifestyle, chiropractic care may help you recover faster and get back to feeling your best.