What Causes Sciatica and How Do You Fix It?
Elevation Chiropractic | Ankeny Chiropractor | Dr. Jonah
Sciatica is one of the most common—and most misunderstood—causes of lower back and leg pain. If you’re dealing with sharp, shooting pain that travels from your lower back down your leg, you’re likely experiencing irritation of the sciatic nerve.
At Elevation Chiropractic in Ankeny, we see this regularly, and the key is simple: you have to address the cause, not just the symptoms.
What Is Sciatica?
Sciatica isn’t a condition—it’s a symptom. It refers to pain that follows the path of the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower spine through your hips and down each leg.
Common symptoms include:
Sharp or burning pain in the lower back, glute, or leg
Numbness or tingling down the leg
Weakness in the affected side
Pain that worsens when sitting
What Causes Sciatica?
1. Spinal Misalignment
One of the most common causes we see at Elevation Chiropractic. When the spine is not moving or aligned properly, it can put pressure on the sciatic nerve.
2. Herniated or Bulging Discs
Discs act as cushions between your vertebrae. When they bulge or herniate, they can press directly on the nerve, causing pain that radiates down the leg.
3. Muscle Imbalances and Tightness
Tight muscles—especially in the hips and glutes—can irritate the sciatic nerve. The piriformis muscle is a common culprit.
4. Poor Posture and Prolonged Sitting
Sitting for long periods (especially with poor posture) places stress on your lower spine and can contribute to sciatic nerve irritation.
Why Sciatica Keeps Coming Back
Many people try to stretch, rest, or take medication for relief. While those may help temporarily, they don’t correct the underlying issue.
If the spine and nervous system aren’t functioning properly, the pressure on the nerve remains—and the pain returns.
How to Fix Sciatica (The Right Way)
At Elevation Chiropractic in Ankeny, Dr. Jonah focuses on correcting the root cause of your sciatica.
Chiropractic adjustments help to:
Restore proper spinal alignment
Reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve
Improve mobility and function
Allow the body to heal naturally
Each care plan is specific to you—because no two cases of sciatica are exactly the same.
What You Can Do at Home
To support your recovery:
Avoid sitting for long periods without breaks
Stretch your hips and hamstrings daily
Use proper posture when sitting and standing
Stay active, but avoid movements that worsen pain
When Should You See a Chiropractor?
If your pain:
Travels down your leg
Includes numbness or tingling
Keeps coming back
Is limiting your daily life
…it’s time to get it checked.
Find Relief with an Ankeny Chiropractor
If you’re searching for sciatica treatment in Ankeny or a trusted chiropractor near you, Elevation Chiropractic is here to help.
Dr. Jonah and the team are focused on helping you get real results—not just temporary relief—so you can get back to living without pain.
Schedule your visit today and start healing from the source.
