Home / Conditions We Treat in Lake Oswego / Sciatica Chiropractor in Lake Oswego
Pain, burning or numbness that runs from the low back or hip down one leg is often called sciatica. At Form & Function Chiropractic, Dr. Jeff Devine works to find what is irritating the nerve instead of only masking the symptoms. This page explains sciatica care and what to expect at your visit.
What is sciatica?
Sciatica describes irritation of the sciatic nerve, the long nerve that runs from the low back through the buttock and down the leg. The irritation often starts in the low back or from a tight piriformis muscle deep in the buttock. Symptoms are usually felt on one side.
Symptoms
- Pain or burning down the back of one leg
- Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
- Pain that is worse after sitting or when coughing or bending
- Weakness in the leg or foot, which should be checked promptly
How care works
Dr. Devine begins with your history and a hands-on exam of the low back, pelvis and hip. Care may include gentle spinal and pelvic adjustments, soft tissue work on tight muscles, and advice on sitting, lifting and daily movement. You will also receive stretches and movements to practice at home. If imaging or another provider is needed, we refer you. Because sciatica often overlaps with low back pain and herniated disc, we look at the whole picture.
Our main clinic site also covers carpal tunnel on the same page, since both involve nerve irritation. Read more about arm and leg pain care there.
Helpful habits while you recover
- Change positions often and avoid long periods of sitting
- Walk in short, comfortable bouts
- Avoid heavy lifting and twisting while symptoms are strong
- Use a supportive chair and keep your hips and knees level
When sitting is the problem
Long drives and desk work can compress the low back and tighten the muscles around the hip. Stand and walk every 30 minutes, keep your hips slightly above your knees, and avoid sitting on a wallet. These small changes can reduce nerve irritation between visits.
What your first visit looks like
Your first visit starts with a conversation about your history, when your leg symptoms began, what makes it better or worse, and what you want to get back to doing. Dr. Devine then examines you, explains what he finds in plain language, and recommends a plan before you leave. X-rays are used only when they are clinically warranted. Adjustments can use Diversified, Activator, Drop Table, Torque Release or SOT techniques, so you can choose a gentler approach if you prefer.
When to get medical care first
Go to urgent care or the emergency room for loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness in the groin or saddle area, rapidly worsening leg weakness, or severe pain that does not ease with rest.
Common questions
How is sciatica different from regular back pain?
Back pain stays in the back. Sciatica travels down the leg and may come with tingling or numbness, which suggests nerve irritation.
How long does sciatica take to improve?
It varies with the cause and how long it has been present. Dr. Devine explains your plan after the exam and adjusts it as you respond.
Do you offer anything besides adjustments?
Yes. Care can include soft tissue work, home exercises, laser therapy when appropriate, and rehab.
Why patients choose Dr. Devine
Dr. Jeff Devine has practiced for more than 25 years and trained at Palmer West Chiropractic College. He uses a range of techniques, including Diversified, Activator, Drop Table, Torque Release and SOT, so care can be gentle or more traditional depending on your comfort. Co-owner Jodi Black offers nutrition coaching for patients who want support beyond the adjustment table. Learn more about Dr. Devine, or see our new patient information.
Related care and nearby areas
Related pages: low back pain, herniated disc, pinched nerve and foot pain. Read more on the main clinic site: sciatica versus a pulled muscle. Ask about the new patient special, and see the clinic FAQ. We welcome patients from Tigard, West Linn, Tualatin, Hillsdale and Southwest Portland and across Lake Oswego. See all services and conditions.
Form & Function Chiropractic
3 Monroe Pkwy, Suite G, Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Phone: (503) 495-3454
Mon and Wed 9 AM to 7 PM, Tue and Thu 7 AM to 3 PM, Fri 8 AM to noon
This page is for general information only and is not medical advice. It does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Talk with a qualified health professional about your own situation, and seek emergency care for severe or sudden symptoms.