Common Symptoms of Sciatica You Shouldn’t Ignore

Sciatica is a condition that affects the sciatic nerve and can cause pain, numbness, and weakness that interferes with daily life. Understanding the common signs of sciatica can help you seek care early and prevent long-term nerve irritation. Dr. Sonya Spencer focuses on identifying the root cause of sciatic pain and providing natural, non-invasive relief through chiropractic care.

What Is Sciatica?

Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve becomes irritated or compressed, often due to spinal misalignment, disc issues, muscle tension, or inflammation. The pain typically starts in the lower back or hip and travels down one leg, sometimes reaching the foot. Because the sciatic nerve controls both sensation and movement in the legs, symptoms can vary widely in severity and presentation.

Common Symptoms of Sciatica You Shouldn’t Ignore

•           Radiating Pain Down One Leg: One of the most recognizable signs of sciatica is pain that travels from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg. This pain may feel sharp, burning, or electric and is often worse when sitting for long periods.

•           Lower Back or Hip Pain: While sciatica is known for leg pain, it often starts with discomfort in the lower back or hip. This pain may feel deep, achy, or tight and can worsen with certain movements or positions.

•           Numbness or Tingling: A pins-and-needles sensation, numbness, or reduced feeling in the leg, foot, or toes can indicate nerve involvement. These sensations may come and go or persist throughout the day.

•           Muscle Weakness: Sciatica can affect muscle strength, making it harder to stand, walk, or lift the foot. Weakness in the leg or foot should never be ignored, as it may signal ongoing nerve compression.

•           Pain That Worsens With Movement: Activities like bending, twisting, coughing, or sneezing may intensify sciatic pain. If everyday movements increase discomfort, it’s a sign the nerve may be under stress.

•           Persistent or Worsening Symptoms: Occasional discomfort may improve on its own, but symptoms that last for weeks or continue to worsen often require professional care.
Ongoing nerve irritation can lead to more complex issues if left untreated.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help Sciatica

Chiropractic care focuses on restoring proper spinal alignment and reducing pressure on the sciatic nerve. Rather than masking symptoms, chiropractic treatment addresses the underlying cause of the problem.

At Spencer Chiropractic, Dr. Sonya Spencer performs a thorough evaluation to understand what’s contributing to your sciatic pain. Treatment may include:

•           Gentle spinal adjustments to improve alignment

•           Spinal decompression to reduce nerve pressure and inflammation

•           Soft tissue therapy to relieve muscle tension

•           Personalized recommendations to support healing and prevent flare-ups

Chiropractic care is a natural, drug-free approach that helps many patients experience lasting relief and improved mobility.

Schedule Your Sciatica Evaluation Today

Sciatica symptoms can range from mild discomfort to debilitating pain, but they should never be ignored. Radiating leg pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness are signs that the sciatic nerve may be under stress. With proper care, many people find relief without surgery or medication.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of sciatica, don’t wait for the pain to worsen. Contact Spencer Chiropractic to schedule an evaluation and learn how chiropractic care can help relieve sciatic nerve pain. Visit our office in Gulfport, Mississippi, or call (228) 575-8660 to book an appointment today.