What Is Sciatica and How Chiropractic Care Can Help

I. Introduction

If you’ve ever experienced sharp, shooting pain that travels from your lower back down your leg, you might be dealing with sciatica—a condition that affects millions of people each year. Sciatica is not a diagnosis in itself, but rather a symptom of an underlying issue, such as a herniated disc or spinal misalignment, that irritates or compresses the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the human body.

Common symptoms of sciatica include:

• Pain that radiates from the lower back into the buttocks and down the leg
• Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
• Muscle weakness
• Difficulty standing up or walking without discomfort
• Pain that worsens with prolonged sitting or sudden movements like sneezing or coughing

These symptoms can range from mild and intermittent to severe and debilitating, significantly impacting your ability to work, exercise, drive, or even get a restful night's sleep.

If you're in the Burlingame, CA area and suffering from sciatica, Dr. Sidhartha Jandial, DC at Jandial Chiropractic offers a natural, non-invasive approach to pain relief and nerve healing. With years of experience in treating spinal conditions, Dr. Jandial is committed to helping patients regain mobility and live pain-free without the need for surgery or long-term medication.

Early intervention is key. The longer sciatica goes untreated, the more likely it is to become chronic and resistant to conservative care. Chiropractic treatment targets the root cause of sciatic nerve irritation, restoring proper spinal alignment and promoting the body’s innate ability to heal.

Whether your symptoms have just begun or you’ve been struggling with sciatica for years, getting the right care at the right time can make all the difference in your recovery.

II. What Is Sciatica?

Sciatica refers to pain caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, which branches from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down each leg. Unlike general lower back pain, sciatica follows a very specific nerve pathway and typically affects only one side of the body.

Anatomy of the Sciatic Nerve

The sciatic nerve originates from the lumbar spine (specifically, the L4 to S3 spinal nerve roots) and travels down through the pelvis and buttocks, extending all the way to the feet. It controls several muscles in the lower leg and provides sensation to the thighs, legs, and soles of the feet.

Common Causes of Sciatica

Sciatica is not a condition in and of itself, but a symptom of an underlying issue. The most common causes include:

• Herniated or Bulging Discs: When the soft center of a spinal disc pushes through its outer layer and presses on the sciatic nerve.
• Spinal Stenosis: A narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on the nerve roots.
• Degenerative Disc Disease: Wear-and-tear changes in the spine that can inflame or compress the nerve.
• Spondylolisthesis: A vertebra slipping forward over another, potentially pinching the sciatic nerve.
• Piriformis Syndrome: A tight piriformis muscle in the buttocks irritates the sciatic nerve beneath it.
• Pregnancy: The growing uterus and increased lumbar curvature can place pressure on the sciatic nerve.
• Injury or Trauma: A fall or car accident can lead to spinal misalignment and nerve impingement.

How Sciatica Feels

Sciatica pain can vary widely—some people feel a mild ache, while others describe it as a burning or electric shock-like sensation. It may worsen when sitting, bending forward, or climbing stairs. In severe cases, sciatica can lead to muscle weakness or loss of bladder/bowel control, which requires immediate medical attention.

Why Understanding the Cause Matters

Understanding the root cause of sciatica is crucial for effective treatment. Treating only the symptoms (such as taking painkillers or muscle relaxants) may provide temporary relief, but without addressing the underlying spinal or muscular issue, the pain is likely to return—or worsen.

At Jandial Chiropractic in Burlingame, Dr. Sidhartha Jandial, DC, performs thorough assessments to pinpoint the cause of sciatica and tailors a treatment plan to restore spinal function and reduce nerve irritation—naturally and effectively.

III. How Chiropractors Diagnose Sciatica

Effective treatment of sciatica begins with a precise diagnosis. Chiropractors are trained to identify the specific spinal or muscular dysfunctions that may be compressing the sciatic nerve and causing pain. At Jandial Chiropractic in Burlingame, Dr. Sidhartha Jandial, DC takes a comprehensive, patient-centered approach to uncover the root cause of your symptoms.

1. Detailed Health History

The diagnostic process begins with an in-depth discussion of your:

• Current symptoms (location, intensity, duration, and aggravating factors)
• Medical history (past injuries, chronic conditions, surgeries)
• Lifestyle factors (occupation, posture, physical activity, sleep habits)

2. Orthopedic and Neurological Examination

A physical exam is conducted to assess how your body is functioning. This may include:

• Range of motion tests to detect stiffness or asymmetry in the spine and hips
• Muscle strength tests to evaluate for weakness caused by nerve compression
• Reflex testing to determine if the sciatic nerve function is impaired
• Sensory tests to identify areas of numbness or tingling
• Orthopedic tests such as the Straight Leg Raise (SLR) or Slump Test

3. Spinal Palpation

Through hands-on palpation, Dr. Jandial can identify:

• Vertebral misalignments (subluxations)
• Muscle spasms or tightness
• Joint dysfunction in the lumbar or sacroiliac regions

4. Referral for Imaging, If Needed

In some cases, Dr. Jandial may refer you for diagnostic imaging such as:

• X-rays to check for misalignments, fractures, or degenerative changes
• MRI or CT scans to evaluate soft tissue structures like discs, nerves, and ligaments

5. Diagnosis and Care Plan

Once the assessment is complete, Dr. Jandial will explain your diagnosis in clear, understandable terms. If sciatica is confirmed, he will outline a custom chiropractic treatment plan focused on correcting the spinal dysfunction, relieving pressure on the sciatic nerve, and restoring optimal mobility.

IV. Chiropractic Treatment for Sciatica

Once a proper diagnosis is made, chiropractic care offers a powerful, drug-free solution to help relieve sciatic nerve pain and restore mobility. At Jandial Chiropractic in Burlingame, Dr. Sidhartha Jandial, DC uses a tailored, evidence-based approach to address the underlying cause of sciatica—whether it's a spinal misalignment, disc issue, or muscular imbalance.

1. Spinal Adjustments

The cornerstone of chiropractic care is the spinal adjustment. Benefits include:

• Decompression of irritated nerve roots
• Improved mobility and flexibility
• Reduced muscle tension
• Enhanced circulation and nutrient flow to injured tissues

2. Flexion-Distraction Therapy

This gentle, non-thrust technique uses a specially designed table to stretch and decompress the spine, reducing disc pressure and promoting disc rehydration.

3. Myofascial Release and Soft Tissue Therapy

Hands-on therapy to:

• Loosen tight muscles
• Improve blood flow
• Reduce inflammation
• Speed up healing time

4. Postural and Ergonomic Coaching

Guidance on proper sitting, lifting, and standing techniques to protect your spine and prevent flare-ups.

5. Rehabilitative Exercises

Simple home exercises prescribed to:

• Improve spinal stability
• Reduce recurrence
• Encourage long-term healing
• Increase mobility

6. Natural Pain Relief Without Drugs or Surgery

Chiropractic treatments correct dysfunction causing the pain, allowing your body to heal itself naturally.

V. Why Choose a Chiropractor in Burlingame for Sciatica?

1. Local Expertise with a Personal Touch

Personalized care tailored to your unique condition, goals, and lifestyle.

2. Comprehensive, Non-Invasive Care

Therapies designed to relieve nerve pressure, reduce inflammation, and restore balance—without drugs or surgery.

3. Convenient, Patient-Focused Office in Burlingame

• Flexible appointment scheduling
• Same-day or next-day visits
• Clean, welcoming environment
• Easy parking and accessibility

4. Proven Track Record with Sciatica Relief

Many patients report improvement within just a few sessions.

5. A Whole-Body Wellness Perspective

• Posture correction
• Stress management guidance
• Nutritional advice for inflammation control
• Exercise and movement tips for lasting spinal health

VI. Tips to Prevent Future Sciatica Flare-Ups

1. Maintain Good Posture

• Sit with your feet flat, knees at hip level
• Use lumbar support or ergonomic chairs
• Avoid crossing legs or slouching

2. Incorporate Daily Movement

• Stretch every 30–60 minutes
• Take daily walks
• Use a standing desk or change positions regularly

3. Strengthen Your Core and Glutes

Exercises like:

• Pelvic tilts
• Bird-dogs
• Bridges
• Planks (proper form)

4. Stretch Regularly

Recommended stretches:

• Seated hamstring stretch
• Figure-4 stretch
• Cat-cow and child's pose
• Hip flexor lunges

5. Lift Smart

• Bend at the knees
• Keep objects close
• Avoid twisting while lifting
• Get help with heavy loads

6. Watch Your Weight

Maintain a healthy weight to reduce spinal stress.

7. Prioritize Restful Sleep

• Use a firm mattress
• Sleep on your back with pillow under knees or side with pillow between legs
• Avoid stomach sleeping

8. Stay Consistent with Chiropractic Maintenance Care

Regular check-ins help keep your spine aligned and catch issues early.

VIII. Schedule Your Sciatica Evaluation Today

If you’re tired of living with burning, radiating pain, numbness, or stiffness from sciatica, now is the time to take control of your health.

At Jandial Chiropractic in Burlingame, Dr. Sidhartha Jandial, DC provides individualized treatment plans that focus on addressing the root cause of your sciatic nerve pain.

✅ Ready to Move Without Pain?

• Call our office at (650) 307-5552 to schedule your initial evaluation.
• Or book online anytime at www.burlingamechiropractic.com.
• Same-day and evening appointments may be available.

Start your recovery journey with Dr. Sidhartha Jandial, DC, your trusted Burlingame chiropractor for sciatica relief.

Citations

1. Mixter WJ, Barr JS. Rupture of the intervertebral disc with involvement of the spinal canal. N Engl J Med. 1934;211(5):210–215.
2. Cox JM. Low Back Pain: Mechanism, Diagnosis, and Treatment. 7th ed. Williams & Wilkins; 2011.
3. Bronfort G, Haas M, Evans RL, Leininger B, Triano J. Effectiveness of manual therapies: the UK evidence report. Chiropr Osteopat. 2010;18(1):3.
4. Kim JH, Van Rijn RM, Maher CG, et al. Advice to remain active or structured exercise in the management of sciatica: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Spine. 2014;39(21):E1372–E1381.
5. Rubinstein SM, van Middelkoop M, Assendelft WJ, de Boer MR, van Tulder MW. Spinal manipulative therapy for chronic low-back pain. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2011;(2):CD008112.
6. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Sciatica Fact Sheet. https://www.ninds.nih.gov