As experienced chiropractors and massage therapists in Stafford and Newport, we are often presented with ‘I’ve got sciatica’ when seeing patients for the first time. But did you know that ‘sciatica’ isn’t really a true diagnosis?
‘Sciatica’ is just a term that describes any injury in the low back that causes pain down the legs or buttocks. It is derived from the name of the largest and longest nerve in that region: the sciatic nerve.
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“Sciatica” is a symptom, not a diagnosis. Whether it’s a pinched nerve or a simple muscle strain, our Stafford and Newport teams are here to find the root cause and get you back on your feet.
There are also different types of sciatica.
1. True Sciatica (The Nerve Issue) – Think of this as direct nerve irritation, usually caused by a “slipped” or bulging disc pressing on the spinal nerves.
- The Rule: Your leg usually hurts significantly more than your back.
- The Path: Sharp pain that travels deep into the leg, often shooting past the knee and into the foot.
- The Feel: Often includes “electrical” sensations—pins and needles, numbness, or actual muscle weakness.
2. Referred Pain (The Muscle/Joint Issue) – This is much more common. It isn’t a pinched nerve; it’s your brain “misinterpreting” pain from injured muscles, joints, or ligaments in your back.
- The Path: Dull or aching pain that radiates into the buttock or thigh but typically stops above the knee.
- The Feel: No tingling or numbness. While it hurts to move, your muscles aren’t actually “weak” in a neurological sense.
- The Rule: Your back usually hurts more than your leg.
It’s important to get it checked
In all cases it is essential to get a diagnosis with suitable treatment and advice as soon as possible. Nerve symptoms can become chronic or even permanent if serious and left too long.
We are experts in assessing and treating back pain with sciatica
Take the Next Step
If you’re dealing with muscle, joint, or nerve pain that’s impacting your quality of life, chiropractic care, massage or shockwave could be the answer — whether that means short-term relief or lasting improvements, our care could help. If you are unsure which may be best for you, please feel free to contact us.
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Article by Ethan Mallett
Content and Media Manager
