Understanding Sciatica: What to Try Before Considering Surgery

Sciatica is one of the most common reasons people across Oakleigh and surrounding suburbs seek chiropractic care. The sharp, burning, or shooting pain that travels from the lower back down the leg can interfere with walking, sitting, work, and sleep. At North Road Chiropractic, where we have been caring for patients since 1987, our focus is on identifying the underlying cause of sciatic nerve irritation rather than simply managing symptoms.

Sciatica usually develops when something places pressure or irritation on the sciatic nerve. Common contributors include disc bulges, restricted spinal joints, postural imbalance, or surrounding muscle tension. Each of these can affect how the nerve functions.

To properly assess sciatica, we combine postural spinal X-rays with Computerized Electromyography (EMG) scanning. X-rays allow us to see spinal alignment and disc spacing, while EMG shows how muscles and nerves are responding to stress. Together, these tools provide a clear picture of both spinal structure and nerve function.

Chiropractic adjustments aim to restore normal spinal movement, reduce nerve pressure, and improve muscular balance. Many patients experience significant improvement with conservative chiropractic care, often avoiding the need for more invasive options.

Some people choose care primarily for pain relief, while others continue with ongoing care to help prevent recurrence. Our role is to explain your findings clearly and recommend appropriate options — you decide how far you wish to take your care.

Make an appointment online:
https://www.backtohealth.com.au/appointment-scheduling

Or call the clinic to speak with Dr Sam:
(03) 9579 2699

If Dr Sam is unavailable, please leave a message and he will return your call within the hour.