SCIATICA TREATMENT IN EXETER
Our Approach to Sciatica Treatment at Innate Health Chiropractic - Exeter
What is Sciatica
Sciatica is the name given to any sort of pain caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve runs from the back of the pelvis, through the buttocks, and down both legs ending at the feet.
Symptoms include pain, numbness, a tingling sensation radiating from the lower back and travelling down one of the legs to the foot and toes, and weakness in the calf muscles or the muscles that move the foot and ankle. Pain can range from mild to very painful.
Sciatica is one of the most common conditions we see at our Exeter clinic. Our chiropractors focus on a restorative treatment pain that not only addresses the back and leg pain, but helps the spine function better to address the root cause.
How do Chiropractors Treat Sciatica
Chiropractors help sciatica through a number of different approaches. First we will perform a number of tests to diagnose the likely cause of the nerve pain, as this will help us direct the treatment in the safest and most proficient way.
Our approach aims to reduce the sciatic nerve irritation and restore the proper functional movement in the lower back and pelvis. Disc injuries are a significant trauma and can take some time to heal. We will also advise you on lifestyle factors and exercises, like walking, and also your posture, to help in your healing recovery and to avoid worsening the sciatica.
What causes Sciatica
Sciatica can result from a number of different causes, the most well known being the disc hernia or disc prolapse. This is where the disc, usually at the base of the spine between L4-L5 or L5-S1, becomes overloaded, causing it to weaken and bulge. If the disc bulge worsens it can prolapse, resulting in a disc protrusion or herniation.
This commonly results in lower back pain and nerve pain down the leg, referred to as sciatica. There are some other causes of sciatica which we have detailed here.
Sciatica and Disc Herniation
Sciatica is often caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve, which may occur when a lumbar disc bulges or herniates. Identifying whether symptoms originate from a disc or another structure is essential for effective treatment. See our herniated disc treatment in Exeter page for detailed information.
If you’re pregnant and experiencing radiating sciatic leg pain, see how pregnancy posture affects nerve-related symptoms in our blog.
Non-Surgical Treatment For Sciatica In Exeter
Many cases of sciatica are caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, often linked to bulging or herniated discs in the lower back.
At Innate Health Chiropractic we offer a combination of chiropractic care, rehabilitation, and IDD spinal decompression therapy to help patients suffering with persistent sciatica and nerve-related back pain.
Learn More About IDD Therapy
What are the symptoms of sciatica
Lower back pain typically in the buttock
Sharp shooting pain down the back or side of the leg, sometimes to the calf, foot or toes
Numbness, pins and needles or a tingling sensation in the foot or leg
Weakness in the leg particularly when walking
Most causes of sciatica do not require or benefit from having an MRI or x-ray taken. This is because sciatica can be diagnosed on the basis of physical tests and symptoms. Having an MRI in most cases will not change the plan of management regarding treatment. In exceptional cases we may refer you for further investigation such as MRI if there are some red flags. These may include (but not limited to):
- Changes in bowel/bladder function
- Unremitting severe pain
- Significant loss of muscle strength in the legs
- Sciatic nerve pain down both legs
Frequently Asked Questions about Sciatica
Sciatica refers to pain that travels from the lower back into the glute, hamstring or leg. It can be caused by irritation or pressure on the sciatic nerve, but in many people the symptoms come from surrounding joints or muscles creating similar pain patterns. A musculoskeletal assessment helps identify which structures are contributing to your discomfort.
Chiropractors assess how the spine, pelvis and surrounding muscles are moving. Many people with sciatica-type symptoms visit Innate Health Chiropractic to explore whether restricted joints, muscle tension or irritated tissues may be adding to their leg pain. Gentle, movement-based techniques can help improve mobility and reduce mechanical stress.
People in Exeter often report:
Lower back or glute pain
Pain travelling into the leg
Tingling or aching in the thigh or calf
Pain when sitting, bending or driving
Feeling “trapped” or stiff in the lower back
Symptoms can vary depending on which structures are involved.
Most people don’t need X-rays or MRI scans, because sciatica-type symptoms are often mechanical. If your assessment suggests you require imaging, referral to your GP or an appropriate provider will be discussed.
Common triggers include:
Prolonged sitting
Lifting awkwardly
Postural changes
Reduced hip mobility
Tight glute or deep hip muscles
Lower-back joint irritation
Understanding these triggers helps guide your recovery.
Your assessment may include:
Lower-back and pelvic movement testing
Neurological screening (reflexes, strength, sensation)
Hip mobility checks
Posture and gait observation
Muscle tension evaluation
This helps determine which structures need support.
No. Many people experience leg pain that feels like sciatica but comes from muscles, joints or the sacroiliac (SI) area referring pain down the leg. That’s why identifying the true mechanical cause is so important.
Simple strategies include:
Using a heat pack on tight glute or lower-back muscles
Taking regular movement breaks
Gentle hip mobility exercises
Avoiding long periods of sitting
Walking in short, frequent bouts
These help reduce mechanical stress on the irritated area.
If symptoms have lasted longer than a week, are worsening, or are affecting walking, sleep or daily activity, a musculoskeletal assessment can help determine why the pain isn’t settling.
Recovery time varies depending on what’s causing the irritation. Some people improve within days; others need longer if multiple structures are involved. Your chiropractor will outline a plan based on your assessment findings.
