What Is Sciatica?
Sciatica is a symptom — pain, tingling, or numbness that travels from the lower back through the buttock and down one or both legs along the path of the sciatic nerve. It can range from a mild ache to a sharp, burning sensation that makes sitting, standing, or walking very difficult.
The most common cause is a herniated lumbar disc pressing on a nerve root. Other causes include spinal stenosis, piriformis syndrome (where the piriformis muscle compresses the nerve), and sacroiliac joint dysfunction.
Dr. Heather Johnston performs a careful assessment to identify the precise cause of your sciatic symptoms and creates a targeted treatment plan. The goal is not just symptom relief but addressing the underlying mechanical problem so the pain stays away.
How We Treat Sciatica
Spinal Adjustment
Precise chiropractic adjustments to the lumbar spine reduce nerve irritation at the root, providing fast and lasting sciatica relief for many patients.
Spinal Decompression
For disc-related sciatica, motorized decompression creates negative pressure in the disc to allow herniated material to retract off the nerve.
Soft Tissue Therapy
Targeted release of the piriformis and gluteal muscles addresses sciatic nerve entrapment and reduces referred pain into the leg.
Nerve Mobilization
Gentle nerve flossing techniques improve the mobility of the sciatic nerve through surrounding tissues, reducing irritation and improving function.
Exercise Rehabilitation
A customized program of core stabilization and flexibility exercises supports the spine and prevents sciatica from recurring.
Postural & Ergonomic Advice
We identify positions and habits that aggravate your sciatica and give you practical strategies to protect your spine at work and at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does sciatica take to heal?
Acute sciatica often improves significantly within 4–8 weeks with appropriate care. Early treatment leads to faster recovery and reduces the risk of long-term nerve damage.
When is sciatica a medical emergency?
If you experience loss of bladder or bowel control, saddle anaesthesia, or rapidly progressing leg weakness, seek emergency care immediately — these may indicate cauda equina syndrome.
Can exercise make sciatica worse?
Some exercises help and some aggravate sciatica depending on the cause. Dr. Johnston will assess your situation and provide a safe, progressive exercise prescription.
Do I need an MRI before chiropractic care for sciatica?
Not necessarily. Dr. Johnston can often identify the likely cause from a clinical exam. If imaging is needed to guide treatment, she will refer you for appropriate investigations.
Ready to Feel Better?
Dr. Heather Johnston is accepting new patients in Squamish. Book online — same-week appointments often available.
📍 Squamish, BC · ICBC & WSBC claims accepted