Anatomical graphic of the lower back and pelvis highlighting sciatic nerve irritation treated at Indy Spine and Rehab in Carmel, Indiana.
 

What is Sciatica?

Sciatica is a common condition that causes pain, numbness, tingling, or burning sensations that travel from the lower back down through the hip, buttock, leg, and into the foot. It occurs when the sciatic nerve becomes irritated or compressed, often due to issues in the lower back or pelvis. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to sharp, radiating pain that makes sitting, standing, or walking difficult.

Common causes of sciatica include disc irritation or herniation, muscle tightness (such as Piriformis Syndrome), spinal joint dysfunction, poor posture, and repetitive strain or heavy lifting.

 
 

How Can We Help?

Treatment for sciatica focuses on reducing nerve irritation, improving spinal and pelvic mobility, and addressing the underlying cause of the compression. Care at Indy Spine and Rehab may include Active Release Technique (ART), dry needling, soft tissue therapy, spinal and pelvic mobilization, and targeted rehab exercises to improve strength, stability, and movement patterns. The goal is to reduce radiating pain, restore normal function, and help patients return to daily activities, work, and exercise without symptoms.

Sports chiropractor Dr. Owen Friest performing a clinical slump test to evaluate sciatic nerve tension and disc irritation at Indy Spine and Rehab.