Sciatica Treatment in New Buffalo, MI
Honest evaluations for sciatica. If we can help, we'll tell you. If we can't, we'll tell you that too.
What is Sciatica?
Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve — from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down each leg. It typically affects only one side of the body and can range from a mild ache to sharp, burning pain or even numbness. At Corrective Chiropractic, sciatica is one of the most common conditions we evaluate.
Common Symptoms
- Pain that radiates from the lower back down the back of the thigh and calf
- A sensation that can vary from a mild ache to a sharp, burning, or excruciating pain
- Pain that may feel like a jolt or electric shock
- Numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness in the affected leg or foot
What Causes It?
Sciatica is most commonly caused by a herniated disc, bone spur, or spinal stenosis compressing part of the sciatic nerve. Other contributing factors include piriformis syndrome, degenerative disc disease, and spondylolisthesis. Identifying the specific cause is critical — because the right approach depends entirely on what's creating the nerve compression.
How Chiropractic Care Helps
Dr. Strother evaluates sciatica cases by examining spinal alignment, disc health, and nerve function. His approach may include spinal decompression therapy, specific adjustments, and rehabilitative exercises. Some sciatica cases respond well to chiropractic care; others require different interventions. He'll assess your situation and give you an honest answer about whether his approach is appropriate for your specific case.
What to Expect During Treatment
Your evaluation includes a thorough examination of your lumbar spine, pelvis, and neurological function. Dr. Strother will identify what's causing the nerve compression and give you a direct assessment of your options — including whether chiropractic care is the right path or whether you should be looking at other solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly can a chiropractor fix my sciatica?
That depends on the underlying cause and severity. Some cases respond well to conservative chiropractic care; others may require surgical consultation. Dr. Strother will evaluate your specific situation and give you an honest recommendation — he won't take on a case he doesn't believe he can help with.
Are there exercises I can do at home for sciatica?
Spinal decompression is a non-surgical traction therapy that gently stretches the spine to take pressure off compressed discs and nerves. It's one tool in Dr. Strother's approach, but whether it's appropriate for your case depends on the evaluation findings.
Can sitting too much cause sciatica?
That varies significantly by individual. Dr. Strother will give you a realistic timeline based on his examination findings. He's straightforward about expectations — if progress isn't happening as expected, he'll reassess and adjust the plan or refer you elsewhere.
Ready to Get an Honest Assessment?
Find out whether Dr. Strother can help with your sciatica. If he can, he'll let you know. If he can't, he'll tell you that too.