What Is Sciatica?

What Is Sciatica, and What Isn’t It?

“Sciatica” is a term many people use to describe leg pain, but not all leg pain is true sciatica. Understanding the difference helps people get the right treatment faster.

Sciatica = Irritation of the Sciatic Nerve

True sciatica includes:

• Pain down the buttock and leg
• Tingling or numbness
• Possible weakness
• Symptoms that travel, rather than stay in one spot

This usually comes from irritation of the nerve roots in the lower back.

Leg Pain That Is Not Sciatica

Many conditions mimic sciatica:

• Gluteal tendinopathy
• Hip joint issues
• SI joint irritation
• Hamstring strain
• Trigger points in the glutes or piriformis

These can create leg pain, but the cause is different.

How Chiropractors Differentiate the Two

Your assessment includes:

• Neurological testing
• Joint mobility checks
• Strength and reflex testing
• Movement screening

This helps us find the true source of your symptoms.

How Chiropractic Helps Sciatica

• Gentle lower back adjustments
• Manual therapy
• Nerve mobility work
• Rehab exercises
• Activity modification

If you’re unsure whether your leg pain is sciatica, a clear assessment makes all the difference.