Back Pain · April 15, 2026 · Dr. Michelle Herczeg
Sciatica Relief: How a Severna Park Chiropractor Helps Calm a Pinched Nerve
Quick answer
Most sciatica improves with consistent conservative care that includes chiropractic adjustments, nerve-flossing exercises, and a temporary reduction in prolonged sitting. Every case is unique, so timelines vary from person to person.
Sciatica isn't a diagnosis — it's a symptom. Something along the path of the sciatic nerve is irritated, and your body is letting you know.
What causes sciatica?
- Disc bulge or herniation pressing on a nerve root
- SI (sacroiliac) joint dysfunction
- Piriformis tightness compressing the nerve in the buttock
- Lumbar joint restriction creating nerve-canal narrowing
Three exercises that actually help
- Nerve flossing: lie on your back, knee bent, gently straighten and bend the leg 10 times.
- Glute bridges: 2 sets of 10, daily.
- Pelvic tilts: gentle low-back rocking on your back, 10 reps every few hours.
When to come in
If pain is into the leg, worse than a 4/10, or lasting more than a few days — book an exam. Sciatica responds extremely well to early care.
Care related to this article
People also ask
What does sciatica feel like?
A sharp, electric, or burning pain that travels from the low back or buttock down the back of the leg, sometimes to the calf or foot. It's often worse with sitting, bending, or sneezing.
How long does sciatica usually last?
With consistent conservative care, most cases improve steadily, though every individual heals at their own pace. Without care, episodes can drag on much longer and tend to recur.
What should you not do with sciatica?
Avoid prolonged sitting, heavy forward bending, deep hamstring stretches on a flared-up nerve, and bed rest beyond 1–2 days.
Can a chiropractor make sciatica worse?
A properly trained chiropractor uses techniques chosen specifically for nerve irritation. We avoid forceful rotation and use gentle, low-force adjustments and nerve mobilization.