Understanding Sciatica: Causes, Symptoms, and Relief in Roanoke, VA

If you’ve ever felt a sharp, shooting pain that travels from your lower back down into your leg, you may have experienced sciatica. This condition is one of the most common reasons people in Roanoke seek out chiropractic care, and for good reason—it can make everyday tasks like sitting, standing, and even sleeping extremely difficult.

At Highland Spine + Sport, we see sciatica frequently in both athletes and active adults. The good news? With the right approach, most cases of sciatica can be effectively managed without surgery.

What is Sciatica?

Sciatica isn’t a diagnosis itself—it’s a symptom of irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve. This nerve is the longest in your body, running from your lower back through your hips and down each leg. When it gets irritated, you may feel:

  • Sharp or burning pain down the leg
  • Tingling or numbness in the foot or calf
  • Muscle weakness in the leg
  • Pain that worsens when sitting, bending, or twisting

Common Causes of Sciatica

Sciatica can be triggered by several issues, including:

  • Herniated discs putting pressure on the nerve root
  • Degenerative changes in the spine
  • Muscle tightness, especially in the glutes or piriformis
  • Sports injuries or repetitive strain
  • Poor core stability and movement mechanics

How We Help at Highland Spine + Sport

Our approach is personalized because no two cases of sciatica are the same. Depending on your needs, treatment may include:

  • Chiropractic adjustments to restore mobility and reduce nerve irritation
  • Soft tissue therapy (like Active Release Technique or cupping) to relieve tight muscles
  • Dry needling to release trigger points contributing to nerve pain
  • Functional rehabilitation to improve core stability and movement patterns
  • Education and guidance so you know how to prevent flare-ups in the future

When to Seek Help

If your leg pain has been around for more than a week, is getting worse, or is affecting your ability to stay active, it’s time to get checked out. The sooner we address the cause, the quicker you can get back to moving, feeling, and living at your best.

Ready to Find Relief?

At Highland Spine + Sport in Roanoke, VA, we specialize in helping people overcome sciatica so they can get back to the activities they love—whether that’s hitting the gym, playing sports, or simply keeping up with day-to-day life without pain.

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