16508 SE 24th ST, STE 203, Vancouver, WA. 98683 (360)818-4626

Effective Sciatica Treatment in Vancouver, WA

An MRI image of the lumbar spine showing disc herniations resulting in sciatica.

Are you experiencing the debilitating pain and discomfort of sciatica? Victory Spine and Sport offers effective chiropractic treatment for sciatica in Vancouver, WA. Our experienced chiropractor diagnoses and treats sciatica on your first visit helping you overcome the pain and get back to doing the things you love.

"5-star experience with Dr. Henry at Victory Spine & Sport. I've been dealing with sciatica for several months to the point I couldn't tolerate my commute anymore. Dr. Henry was recommended to me by a coworker as the best chiropractor in Vancouver that you'll find. I couldn't agree more. I'm about two weeks into my treatment and I'm noticing big results ... less nervy pain down the leg, I can sit for awhile without aggravating things. I'm not out of the woods yet, but am very happy with the progression so far!"

Understanding Sciatica

Sciatica is a condition that affects the sciatic nerve, which runs from the low back, glutes and on the back side of the legs. When this nerve becomes irritated or compressed, it can cause significant pain and discomfort. Common symptoms of sciatica include:

  • Lower back pain
  • Pain that radiates down one leg
  • Numbness or tingling in the leg
  • Muscle weakness in the affected leg
  • Low back and hip muscle spasm and stiff joints

Causes of Sciatica

Sciatica can be caused by issues in the lumbar spine or the hip. Understanding the specific cause is essential for effective treatment. 

Lumbar Spine


Lumbar Disc Lesion:

A lumbar disc lesion occurs when the outer layers of the spinal disc sustain damage, resulting in the inner gel-like material pressing on nearby nerves. Consequently, individuals may experience pain, numbness, or weakness in their legs. This issue often originates from mild disc injuries, which can progressively escalate to more severe complications such as herniation. Typically, disc problems manifest in the lower back, particularly between the L4/5 and L5/S1 vertebrae. Various factors, including repetitive stress, aging, and genetics, can increase the susceptibility of discs to damage.

Spondylosis:

Spondylosis, characterized by the natural wear and tear of the spine, primarily results from aging. This process entails the gradual breakdown of spinal discs and joints, resulting in discomfort and stiffness in the back. Additionally, spondylosis may trigger the development of bone spurs, which, when pressing on nerves, can exacerbate sciatica symptoms.
a lumbar disc herniation causing sciatica shown on a model

Stenosis

Lumbar spinal stenosis is a condition where the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the nerves. This can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs and back. The narrowing is often due to aging and the wear and tear of the spine, including the discs, joints, and ligaments. Almost opposite of most lumbar disc lesions, stenosis symptoms often worsen when standing or walking and improve when sitting or bending forward. 

Spondylolisthesis: 

Spondylolisthesis is when a vertebra in the spine slips forward over the one below it. This slippage can press on nerves, causing pain in the lower back and legs. It's often due to aging and wear and tear, but it can also happen because of birth defects, injuries, or diseases. Degenerative spondylolisthesis is the most common type in older adults and usually affects the L4/5 vertebrae. It can lead to spinal instability and

Piriformis muscle pinching the sciatic nerve

Hip


Piriformis Syndrome:

Piriformis syndrome occurs when a muscle deep in the glute called the piriformis irritates the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve passes nearby or even directly through this muscle in a percentage of the population. This can cause pain, tingling, and numbness in the buttocks and down the leg. It can often happen from sitting too long, or overuse.

Chiropractic Care for Sciatica

Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive, drug-free approach to managing and alleviating sciatica pain. Our experienced chiropractor in Vancouver, WA, utilizes a variety of techniques to help you find relief.

Thorough Physical Examination

Before starting any treatment, our chiropractor conducts a comprehensive physical examination, including orthopedic and neurological testing. This thorough assessment helps identify the precise cause of your sciatica and ensures a tailored treatment plan for your specific needs.

Chiropractic Adjustments

Chiropractic adjustments are a core component of chiropractic care. By freeing up the stiff joints in the spine, pressure on the sciatic nerve can be reduced, allowing for natural healing and pain relief.

Manual Therapy/ Myofascial Release

Manual therapy and myofascial release are techniques used by our chiropractor to alleviate sciatica pain by targeting muscle and fascia tension. These methods enhance mobility and reduce achy muscle spasms. These therapies are especially beneficial for sciatica caused by muscle issues like piriformis syndrome, offering substantial relief and improved function.

Home Exercises and Stretches

Incorporating at-home exercises and stretches into your treatment plan can help strengthen the muscles supporting your spine, improve flexibility, and reduce the likelihood of future sciatic nerve irritation.

Workstation Setup and Ergonomic Advice

Our chiropractor provides personalized advice on workstation set-ups, and ergonomic adjustments to help manage and prevent sciatica. This includes recommendations on proper posture, screen height, standing vs sitting, how to select an office chair. These small changes can have a large impact on improving your sciatica symptoms.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Sciatica

Choosing chiropractic care for sciatica treatment offers several benefits:

  • Non-invasive treatment: Chiropractic care avoids the need for surgery or medications.
  • Personalized treatment plans: Each treatment plan is tailored to your specific needs and condition.
  • Improved overall well-being: Chiropractic care promotes overall spinal health and well-being.

Why Choose Us for Sciatica Treatment in Vancouver, WA

Our chiropractic clinic in Vancouver, WA, is dedicated to providing high-quality care to help you find relief from sciatica pain. Here’s why you should choose us:

  • Experienced chiropractor: Dr. Henry has extensive experience in treating sciatica and other spinal conditions.
  • Comprehensive approach: We use a combination of spinal adjustments, manual therapy, and home exercise programs to provide holistic care.
  • Patient-focused care: Your comfort and well-being are the top priority. Dr. Henry works closely with you to develop a treatment plan that suits your needs.
  • Refers out as needed: Sciatica can be caused by several different issues. Sometimes, chiropractic care isn't the right answer or a situation becomes more medically urgent. In these situations Dr. Henry will help point you to the right office to get the care you need.