Treatment of sciatica is most effective when it’s tailored to your unique symptoms and underlying causes. At Integrative Health and Rehabilitation in Denver, Colorado, we provide personalized, non-invasive solutions to relieve sciatic pain and restore your mobility. Whether you’re dealing with sharp, shooting discomfort or persistent lower back and leg pain, our experienced team is here to help you feel better… faster. Our goal is to eliminate the source of your pain, not just mask the symptoms, so you can get back to living a healthy, active life.

What Is Sciatica?

Sciatica is a condition that occurs when the sciatic nerve becomes irritated, inflamed, or compressed. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body, beginning in the lower back and traveling through the hips and buttocks, then down each leg.
Many people use the term “sciatica” to describe pain that radiates from the lower back into the leg. However, sciatica is actually a symptom rather than a diagnosis. The underlying cause may be a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, piriformis syndrome, or another condition affecting the lower back and pelvis.
Depending on the severity of the irritation, symptoms may range from mild discomfort to significant pain, numbness, weakness, or tingling that interferes with daily activities.

What Causes Sciatica?

Several conditions can compress the sciatic nerve and cause sciatica symptoms. Common causes include:

Herniated Disc

A bulging or herniated spinal disc is one of the most common causes of sciatica. When disc material presses against a nerve root in the lumbar spine, pain may radiate down the leg.

Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis occurs when the spaces surrounding the spinal nerves become narrowed. This condition becomes more common with age and may cause sciatica symptoms in older adults.

Degenerative Disc Disease

Age-related changes in the spinal discs can reduce cushioning between vertebrae and contribute to nerve irritation. DDD will typically require more aggressive treatment of sciatica.

Piriformis Syndrome

The piriformis muscle lies deep in the buttock near the sciatic nerve. Tightness or spasm of this muscle may compress the nerve, causing symptoms similar to traditional sciatica.

Spondylolisthesis

This condition occurs when one vertebra slips forward on another, potentially narrowing the space available for spinal nerves.

Pregnancy

Changes in posture, weight distribution, and pelvic mechanics during pregnancy may contribute to temporary irritation of the sciatic nerve.

At Integrative Health and Rehabilitation in Denver, we perform a thorough examination to determine the root cause of your sciatica. Our chiropractic treatments, combined with therapies like dry needling, acupuncture, and spinal decompression, offer natural and lasting relief.

Common Sciatica Symptoms

Sciatica symptoms vary depending on the severity and location of nerve irritation.
Common symptoms include:
  • Pain radiating from the lower back into the buttock
  • Burning or shooting leg pain
  • Numbness in the leg or foot
  • Tingling sensations (“pins and needles”)
  • Muscle weakness
  • Difficulty standing for long periods
  • Pain when sitting
  • Increased symptoms while coughing or sneezing
  • Leg pain that is worse than back pain
Some patients experience symptoms only in the buttock or thigh, while others report pain extending all the way into the foot.

How Is Sciatica Diagnosed?

A proper diagnosis begins with a detailed health history and physical examination.
Your chiropractor may evaluate:
  • Posture
  • Walking mechanics
  • Range of motion
  • Muscle strength
  • Reflexes
  • Areas of numbness or tingling
  • Orthopedic testing
In some cases, digital X-rays or advanced imaging such as MRI may be recommended to identify disc injuries, arthritis, spinal stenosis, or other structural causes of nerve compression.
Because conditions such as hip arthritis, sacroiliac joint dysfunction, and peripheral neuropathy can mimic sciatica symptoms, an accurate diagnosis is important before beginning treatment.

What Makes Sciatica Worse?

Many patients unknowingly aggravate their symptoms through everyday activities.
Sciatica often worsens with:
  • Prolonged sitting
  • Poor posture
  • Heavy lifting
  • Repetitive bending
  • Twisting movements
  • Long car rides
  • Physical inactivity
  • Sleeping on an unsupportive mattress
Identifying aggravating factors can help reduce flare-ups and improve recovery.

Can Sciatica Go Away Without Treatment?

Some cases of sciatica improve within a few weeks with rest, activity modification, and home care. However, many patients continue to experience recurring episodes because the underlying cause has not been addressed. Without proper treatment of sciatica, chronic nerve irritation may lead to:
  • Recurrent pain
  • Muscle weakness
  • Reduced mobility
  • Loss of activity tolerance
  • Progressive degeneration
Seeking treatment early may help shorten recovery time and reduce the risk of long-term complications.

Should I Go to an Integrative Chiropractor for Treatment of Sciatica Pain?

Because sciatica is a spinal problem radiating to the legs, an integrative Chiropractor is best suited to treat this condition. Sciatica can be a sharp, dull, or burning pain radiating down the back of the leg. This is where the Sciatic nerve travels after branching from the lower portion of the spinal cord. Herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or muscle imbalances are the common causes of sciatica, but a simple misaligned vertebra is a more common cause of these symptoms.

Our Approach to Treatment of Sciatica

At Integrative Health and Rehabilitation, we take a holistic approach to sciatica treatment, addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes of your condition. Your personalized treatment plan will:

  • Relieve Pain: We employ chiropractic adjustments and various manual therapies to relieve acute pain and inflammation associated with sciatica.
  • Correct the Root Cause: Our integrative Chiropractor will assess your spine, muscles, and posture to identify any misalignments or imbalances that may be contributing to your sciatic pain. Through targeted adjustments and exercises, we aim to correct these issues.
  • Strengthen and Rehabilitate: We offer tailored rehabilitation programs to strengthen the muscles and improve the flexibility of the affected areas, helping to prevent future sciatica flare-ups.
  • Provide Education: Our team educates you on lifestyle modifications, ergonomics, and exercises that can reduce the risk of sciatica recurrence and promote your long-term well-being.

Why Choose Integrative Health and Rehabilitation for Treatment of Sciatica?

  1. Experienced Team: Our chiropractors and healthcare professionals have extensive experience in treatment of sciatica and other musculoskeletal conditions.
  2. Personalized Care: Every patient is unique. Our integrative Chiropractor will tailor the treatment of sciatica to your specific needs and goals.
  3. State-of-the-Art Facilities: We utilize modern diagnostic tools and treatment techniques to ensure the highest standard of care.
  4. Comprehensive Approach: Our integrative approach combines Chiropractic care, Acupuncture, Shockwave Therapy, and patient education to provide effective sciatica treatment.
  5. Results-Driven: Our goal is to alleviate your pain and discomfort and improve your quality of life, empowering you to take control of your health.

Frequently Asked Questions About Treatment of Sciatica

Q: Can a Chiropractor Help Sciatica?

A: Yes. Chiropractic care is one of the most common conservative treatments for sciatica. A chiropractor can evaluate the cause of your symptoms and develop a treatment plan designed to reduce nerve irritation, improve spinal mobility, and restore normal movement patterns. Depending on the underlying condition, treatment may include chiropractic adjustments, dry needling, shockwave therapy, laser therapy, therapeutic exercises, and home care recommendations.

Q: What Is the Fastest Way to Relieve Sciatic Nerve Pain?

A: The fastest way to relieve sciatica depends on the cause of the nerve irritation. Many patients find relief through a combination of movement, stretching, ice or heat therapy, and professional treatment. While resting for a day or two may help during a severe flare-up, prolonged bed rest often slows recovery. Treatment that addresses the underlying cause typically provides the best long-term results.

Q: Is Walking Good for Sciatica?

A: In many cases, yes. Walking can help improve circulation, maintain mobility, and reduce stiffness associated with sciatica. However, if walking significantly increases your symptoms, you should stop and consult a healthcare provider. The ideal amount of activity varies depending on the cause and severity of your condition.

Q: Can Sciatica Go Away on Its Own?

A: Some cases of sciatica resolve without professional treatment, particularly when symptoms are mild and caused by temporary inflammation. However, if the underlying problem remains, symptoms often return. Persistent, worsening, or recurring sciatica should be evaluated to identify and address the root cause.

Q: How Long Does Sciatica Usually Last?

A: The duration of sciatica varies widely. Mild cases may improve within a few weeks, while more severe cases involving herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or chronic degeneration can last several months. Early treatment often helps reduce recovery time and improve outcomes.

Q: What Sleeping Position Is Best for Sciatica?

A: Many people find relief by sleeping on their side with a pillow between their knees or on their back with a pillow under their knees. These positions may reduce stress on the lower back and pelvis while helping maintain a more neutral spinal posture during sleep.

Q: What Should You Avoid If You Have Sciatica?

A: Activities that commonly aggravate sciatica include:

  • Prolonged sitting
  • Heavy lifting
  • Repetitive bending
  • Twisting motions
  • Poor posture
  • Extended bed rest
  • High-impact activities during flare-ups

Avoiding these aggravating factors while following a treatment plan may help speed recovery.

Q: Can Sciatica Cause Knee Pain?

A: Yes. Although sciatica is commonly associated with lower back and leg pain, irritation of the sciatic nerve can sometimes create symptoms that radiate into the knee, calf, ankle, or foot. Because knee pain may also originate from arthritis, meniscus injuries, or ligament problems, a proper evaluation is important.

Q: Can Sciatica Cause Foot Numbness or Tingling?

A: Yes. Numbness, tingling, burning sensations, and weakness in the foot are common symptoms when the sciatic nerve or one of its nerve roots becomes compressed or irritated. The specific location of symptoms often provides clues about which spinal nerve is involved and the best treatment of sciatica pain.

Q: Does Sciatica Show Up on an X-Ray?

A: Sciatica itself does not appear on an X-ray because nerves cannot be visualized using standard radiographs. However, X-rays can reveal structural problems that may contribute to sciatica, such as arthritis, spinal degeneration, scoliosis, fractures, or spondylolisthesis. In some cases, an MRI may be recommended to evaluate spinal disc health and nerve structures more directly.

Q: Is Sciatica a Permanent Condition?

A: Most cases of sciatica are not permanent. Many patients experience significant improvement with appropriate treatment and lifestyle modifications. The key is identifying the underlying cause and addressing factors that contribute to ongoing nerve irritation.

Q: When Should I Seek Immediate Attention for Sciatica?

A: Although uncommon, certain symptoms require prompt medical evaluation. Seek immediate medical care if you experience:

  • Loss of bowel or bladder control
  • Severe or rapidly worsening leg weakness
  • Numbness in the groin or saddle region
  • Significant difficulty walking
  • Symptoms following a serious accident or fall

These symptoms may indicate a more serious neurological condition that requires urgent treatment of sciatica.

Don’t Delay Treatment of Sciatica Pain

Don’t let sciatica pain control your life any longer. We are committed to helping you find relief and lasting solutions for treatment of sciatica. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and take the first step toward a pain-free future. We are conveniently located in Denver, Colorado, and look forward to being your integrative chiropractic partner in health and wellness and will provide you with effective treatment of sciatica symptoms you are experiencing.

Looking for a Chiropractor in Denver? Still have questions about the treatment of sciatica? Contact us. Still not sure? Read some of our 5-Star Google reviews to see why we are the chiropractor Denver seeks for fast, effective, and lasting pain relief. We’ve been helping patients in Arvada, Denver, and Wheat RidgeColorado, for over 20 years. Lastly, learn more about the conditions we treat and the benefits of the many types of treatment we provide on our Health Articles page, including treatment of sciatica. Ready to start feeling better? Book an appointment online!

 

Dr James Doran DC

Dr. James Doran, DC, CCAc
Clinic Director, Board Certified, Licensed Colorado Chiropractor, Certified Chiropractic Acupuncturist
Integrative Health and Rehabilitation – Denver, CO

Dr. James Doran is a licensed Doctor of Chiropractic with over 25 years of clinical experience treating musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions. His clinical focus includes treating back pain, neck pain, headache disorders, sports injuries, and post–auto accident whiplash injuries.

Dr. Doran utilizes evidence-based approaches including chiropractic adjustments, acupuncture, dry needling, low-level laser therapy, and rehabilitative care. He holds a bachelor’s degree in human nutrition and integrates functional, biomechanical, and whole-person principles into patient care.  Dr. Doran is licensed to practice Chiropractic, Acupuncture, and Dry Needling in the State of Colorado and treats patients daily in private practice.

About Integrative Health and Rehabilitation

Integrative Health and Rehabilitation provides integrative chiropractic and physical medicine services for patients in Denver, Arvada, Westminster, and Wheat Ridge, Colorado. The clinic focuses on evidence-based, non-surgical care for both acute and chronic conditions, with an emphasis on restoring function, reducing pain, and supporting long-term health. 📍 Office Location: 🔗 4704 N Harlan St Ste. 602, Denver, CO 80212

Post last updated June 1, 2026

Denver chiropractor examining a shoulder

Ready for an expert opinion? Get in touch today!

With a legacy of more than 25 years, our team specializes in helping individuals triumph over back pain, neck discomfort, and persistent headaches, all without relying on addictive medications or risky surgical procedures.

Contact Us Today
Like this article? Spread the word!
Related Posts
whiplash treatment in denver

Best Whiplash Injury Treatment in Denver

Explore whiplash injury symptoms and treatment options that may reduce neck pain,…

Denver ClassPass Chiropractor | Easy Scheduling Through ClassPass

You can schedule a ClassPass Chiropractor visit with us today. Your ClassPass credits can…

Wheatridge Chiropractor | Fast Pain Relief, Improved Performance

Searching for a Wheatridge chiropractor? Our Wheat Ridge-area clinic offers chiropractic,…

...