FAQs about Sciatica Treatment in Aurora CO

Sciatica is pain caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in the body. It runs from the lower back through the buttocks and down each leg.

Common causes include:

• Herniated or bulging lumbar discs
• Lumbar spinal stenosis
• Piriformis syndrome
• Degenerative disc disease
• Spinal misalignment

Auto accidents and work injuries can also cause or worsen sciatica.

Yes. Chiropractic care addresses the most common causes of sciatica directly. Treatment may include spinal adjustments to improve alignment, spinal decompression therapy to relieve pressure on affected discs, and soft tissue therapy to reduce tension in the piriformis muscle and surrounding tissues. Most patients experience significant relief through consistent chiropractic care and avoid surgery or long-term medication use.

Recovery depends on the underlying cause and severity. Many patients with mild to moderate sciatica notice meaningful improvement within four to six weeks of consistent care. More severe cases involving large disc herniations or chronic nerve irritation may require two to four months. Cases involving progressive neurological symptoms should receive medical evaluation and imaging. Your provider will discuss a treatment timeline during your evaluation.

In most cases, no. Research consistently shows that most patients achieve excellent outcomes with conservative treatment, including chiropractic care and physical therapy. Surgery is generally considered only when there is severe or progressive neurological compromise, such as significant leg weakness or loss of bladder or bowel function, or when conservative care has failed after an appropriate period. We will always tell you honestly if we believe a surgical consultation is appropriate.

Sciatica typically causes sharp, burning, or shooting pain that radiates from the lower back through the buttocks and down one leg, often reaching the foot.

Other common symptoms include:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Pins-and-needles sensations
• Muscle weakness in the affected leg

Symptoms are usually one-sided and may worsen with prolonged sitting or when standing up after sitting.