The sciatic nerve is the largest and thickest nerve in the human body. It runs from the lower back through the buttocks and down the back of each leg.

Sciatica is a common condition that occurs when the sciatic nerve becomes irritated, compressed, or inflamed. This can cause pain that is often described as sharp, burning, or radiating — typically affecting the lower back, buttock, and leg. Because of its size and location, the sciatic nerve is particularly prone to irritation.

Understanding Risk Factors of Sciatica

Certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing sciatica, including:

• Age – middle-aged and older adults are at greater risk due to age-related spinal changes.
• Occupation – repetitive lifting, twisting, or prolonged sitting can contribute to strain on the lower spine.
• Lifestyle – being overweight, smoking, low physical activity, or diabetes can impact nerve and disc health.
• Pregnancy – may place additional pressure on the sciatic nerve.
• Osteoarthritis – degeneration in the lower spine can lead to nerve irritation.
• Core weakness – relying on the spine rather than abdominal muscles for support can increase pressure on spinal structures.

Common Causes of Sciatica

Sciatica can develop from a number of underlying spinal or muscular conditions, including:

• Disc bulges – especially at the L4–L5 or L5–S1 levels, which can compress the sciatic nerve.
• Spinal stenosis – narrowing of the spinal canal, putting pressure on the nerve.
• Degenerative changes or arthritis – wear and tear affecting discs, bones, and joints of the spine.
• Spondylolisthesis – where one vertebra slips forward onto another.
• Muscle spasm – particularly of the piriformis muscle in the buttock.
• Pregnancy – additional pressure from body changes can irritate the nerve.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

At Gonnet Chiropractic, our chiropractors assess each individual to understand the possible factors contributing to their sciatica. This may include a review of health history, occupation, and lifestyle factors, followed by a physical examination that may include:

• Observation of posture and movement (walking, sitting, standing)
• Range of motion testing
• Orthopaedic assessments to help identify the cause of the irritation

If no previous imaging is available, an X-ray may be recommended to gain a clearer understanding of your condition.

Based on your assessment, care may include:

• Chiropractic adjustments – using manual or low-force techniques as appropriate
• Soft tissue therapies – such as dry needling
• Exercise and rehabilitation guidance – specific movements to support recovery and spinal health

Each approach is tailored to the individual, with the aim of supporting comfort, mobility, and overall function.

GONNET CHIROPRACTIC

What to Expect at Your Appointment

When you visit Gonnet Chiropractic for sciatica care, your appointment may include:

1. A consultation and review of your health history
2. A physical examination and postural assessment
3. Discussion of findings and available care options
4. A personalised approach that may include chiropractic techniques and supportive advice

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my sciatica get worse at night?
Poor sleep posture, an unsupportive mattress, or inactivity can contribute to discomfort at night. When we rest, muscles relax and spinal discs can slightly expand, which may temporarily increase nerve pressure in some cases.

Why does my sciatica come and go?
Sciatic pain can fluctuate depending on activity levels and the underlying cause. For example, if prolonged sitting contributes to your symptoms, you may notice improvement after walking or standing, with pain returning after another extended period of sitting.

Gonnet Chiropractic provides chiropractic care for families and individuals in Deception Bay, Rothwell, North Lakes, and surrounding Redcliffe Peninsula communities.

Disclaimer: Chiropractic care may not be suitable for all individuals. Results vary from person to person. Please seek professional advice for your specific situation.