Conditions We Treat
SCIATICA
Sciatica can stop you in your tracks. The pain might be a deep ache in the buttock or a sharp, shooting sensation that runs all the way down the leg to the foot. Sitting, standing, walking and sleeping all become difficult, and it can be frightening when you don't know what's causing it.
Sciatica occurs when a nerve root in the lower spine is compressed or irritated. The most common cause is a lumbar disc herniation, but spinal stenosis, degenerative changes and even a tight piriformis muscle in the buttock can all be responsible.
Most people with sciatica improve significantly within weeks to months. A New England Journal of Medicine trial found that both surgical and conservative groups achieved comparable recovery rates at one year, and many disc herniations reduce in size or resorb naturally over time. A large BMJ Open observational study of over 11,500 patients found that chiropractic manipulation was associated with 31 percent lower odds of undergoing disc surgery within a year.
We see a lot of sciatica at our Sandton practice, and every case is different. Assessment starts with a thorough history and neurological exam, testing reflexes, strength, sensation and nerve tension to identify exactly which nerve root is involved. In most cases we can diagnose the problem clinically, but we can arrange imaging or specialist referrals when needed.
Treatment includes gentle spinal adjustments aimed at reducing irritation around the affected nerve, soft tissue therapy for the surrounding muscles and targeted rehab exercises to build stability and prevent recurrence. We tailor everything to the severity and stage of your condition. Acute sciatica needs a very different approach to a long-standing case.
COMMON SYMPTOMS OF SCIATICA
- Pain radiating from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg
- Sharp, shooting or burning pain in one leg
- Numbness or tingling in the leg, calf or foot
- Weakness in the affected leg or foot
- Pain that worsens with sitting, bending or coughing
- Difficulty standing up from a seated position
- A constant ache or heaviness in one buttock
- Pins and needles in the toes or sole of the foot
- Pain that interrupts sleep or makes it hard to find a comfortable position
- Difficulty walking or standing for extended periods
Getting an accurate diagnosis early makes a real difference. The sooner we can identify what's causing the nerve irritation, the sooner we can start the right treatment and prevent the problem from becoming chronic.
We welcome patients from Sandton, Morningside, Woodmead, Sunninghill and surrounding Johannesburg suburbs.
Book an appointment at our Sandton practice and let us help you get back on your feet.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Sciatica is pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg. It occurs when a nerve root in the lumbar spine is compressed or irritated, most commonly by a disc herniation.
Yes. Chiropractic care is a widely used, drug-free treatment for sciatica. A large BMJ Open observational study found that chiropractic manipulation was associated with 31 percent lower odds of undergoing disc surgery within a year. Treatment focuses on reducing irritation around the affected nerve through gentle spinal adjustments, soft tissue work and targeted exercises.
Most people with sciatica improve significantly within weeks to months. Research shows that both surgical and conservative groups achieve comparable recovery rates at one year. Chronic cases may take longer and benefit from a structured rehabilitation programme.
Most people with sciatica do not need surgery. Many disc herniations reduce in size or resorb over time, and conservative care produces comparable long-term outcomes to surgery for the majority of patients. Surgery is generally only considered if severe neurological symptoms develop or if conservative treatment fails after an adequate trial.
Sciatica is commonly aggravated by prolonged sitting, bending forward, coughing, sneezing and straining. Poor posture and a sedentary lifestyle can also contribute. Your chiropractor can advise on positions and movements to avoid during the acute phase.