Sciatica and Low Back Pain Relief in Airdrie
Non-surgical treatment for sciatica, nerve pain, or any pain radiating from the low back.
Sciatica can show up when you least expect it, whether you're working in the yard, finishing a project at work, or putting the kids to bed. Sciatic nerves are the biggest nerves in your body.
They control the muscles that help you walk, jump, and moonwalk. Sciatica is what happens when these nerves get compressed or irritated from things like bulging discs, joint changes, and tight muscles.
It can be a literal "pain in the butt," sometimes even causing numbness, burning, or tingling down the legs. If you're dealing with sciatica in Airdrie, you're not alone, it's something we help people with every day.
We'll work with you to understand what's causing your symptoms and build a clear plan to help you get back to living life fully.
Common Symptoms
- Sharp or shooting pain in the low back that radiates down one leg
- Burning or tingling down the leg
- Numbness or tingling in the glutes, legs, or feet
- Numbness or reduced feeling in the leg or foot
- Pain that gets worse with sitting, bending, or coughing
- Pain that gets worse with prolonged standing
- Weakness in the leg or foot
Common Causes
- Disc Problems: a bulging or herniated disc can press on the nearby sciatic nerve
- Narrowed Spine (Spinal Stenosis): reduced space around spinal nerves, especially with standing or walking
- Bone Spurs: small bony growths that take up space in the spine and irritate nearby nerves
- Slipped Vertebrae (Spondylolisthesis): a spinal bone shifts out of place, compressing the nerve
- Muscle Tightness or Spasm (Piriformis Syndrome): tight glute or hip muscles press directly on the sciatic nerve
- Injuries: falls, lifting incidents, or motor vehicle accidents that inflame structures around the nerve
Safe Treatment for Your Sciatica in Airdrie
Comprehensive Exam
We start by understanding exactly what's causing your symptoms. Sciatica isn't the same from person to person, knowing the cause shapes the entire plan.
Cox Flexion-Distraction
A gentle, low-force technique that directly decompresses the affected discs and reduces nerve irritation, no forceful twisting, cracking, or popping.
Chiropractic Adjustments
Targeted adjustments to restore proper spinal movement and reduce pressure around the sciatic nerve.
Targeted Exercises
Home exercises and stretches focused on the glutes, hamstrings, and low back to support recovery and reduce recurrence.
Lifestyle Modifications
Practical guidance on posture, daily movement, and habits that support long-term relief and help prevent flare-ups.
Why Choose Summit Spine Centre for Sciatica Treatment
35 Years Serving Airdrie
Decades of experience treating sciatica and spine conditions right here in our community.
Specialized Sciatica Care
We use evidence-based techniques like Cox Flexion-Distraction, designed specifically for nerve and disc conditions.
A Plan Built Around You
We take the time to understand your symptoms and create a clear, personalized recovery plan, not a one-size-fits-all approach.
What Our Patients Say
“After dealing with neck and back issues for years with little success from other chiropractors and physiotherapists, I started going to Summit Spine Centre after a friend's referral. Their flexion distraction technique has significantly improved my range of motion, and I'm feeling better than I have in years. I'd forgotten what it felt like to move comfortably again.”
Keith B.
Airdrie Patient
“After one month of weekly visits my life is significantly different. My back feels great, I don't grunt and groan when I'm moving, I'm no longer hunched over or constantly protecting myself. I can do things care free like play with my kids, and be present in the moment with them. I'm not nearly as angry or frankly miserable and able to enjoy life again in a way I haven't for some time.”
Justin C.
Airdrie Patient
“This would be 12 stars if I could! Dr. Karl Louder is hands down amazing, and Dr. Ryan Lawrence is pretty amazing too! I have been coming here since 2020. I highly recommend any and everyone to go here for care. Your health is vital and they have played a huge part in my health as well as my husband's. They supported us so deeply while my husband went through cancer treatments. We are so grateful for this place.”
Chelsea D.
Airdrie Patient
Related Conditions
What causes sciatica?
Sciatica is nerve pain caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, often leading to lower back and leg pain. Common causes include disc problems, spinal stenosis, bone spurs, muscle tightness, and injuries.
How do I know if my pain is sciatica?
Sciatica typically involves pain that travels from the low back or hip down one leg. If your symptoms follow that pattern, it may be related to the sciatic nerve being inflamed or compressed.
How long does it take sciatica to heal?
Sciatica can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Recovery time depends on the cause and how it's managed. Most cases fully resolve within 4–6 weeks with proper care.
When should I see a chiropractor for sciatica?
If your pain is persistent, worsening, or affecting your daily life, get assessed. If you begin to develop numbness or weakness in your legs or feet, see someone quickly. At Summit Spine Centre in Airdrie, we can help you understand what's causing your problem and what to do next.
How do you relieve sciatica?
Sciatica is usually relieved by taking pressure off the sciatic nerve and reducing inflammation. Many people benefit from chiropractic adjustments and decompression therapy. If conservative care isn't enough, injections, nerve ablations, or surgical options may be available.
Can sciatica go away on its own?
Yes, sciatica can improve on its own. However, if symptoms persist or keep coming back, it's important to address the underlying cause so it doesn't get worse.
What makes sciatica worse?
This depends on the cause. It is often worse with prolonged sitting, bending, or lifting. In other cases it can be worse with prolonged standing.
Is walking good for sciatica?
For many people, gentle walking can help reduce stiffness and improve circulation. However, it depends on the cause, listen to your body and consult your chiropractor.
Can a chiropractor help sciatica caused by a disc herniation?
Yes. At Summit Spine Centre we often use Cox Flexion-Distraction, a gentle, low-force technique that directly reduces pressure on the affected discs and nerves without forceful cracking or popping.
Can sciatica cause foot numbness?
Yes. If the sciatic nerve is compressed or irritated enough it can cause foot numbness. In more serious cases it may also cause weakness such as "foot drop."
How can I treat sciatic nerve pain at home?
Ice and heat therapy can help. Gentle stretching of the glutes, hamstrings, and low back may reduce pain. Low-impact movement like walking or swimming may also help. Understanding the cause will guide what you should or shouldn't do.
How long does sciatic nerve pain last?
Sciatic nerve pain can last anywhere from a few days to a few months, depending on the cause and how long recovery takes.
What tests can diagnose sciatica?
Our chiropractors assess sciatica using movement analysis, reflex testing, strength testing, and orthopedic tests. If needed, we may refer for X-ray, MRI, or CT scan.
What are common sciatica treatments?
At Summit Spine Centre, treatment depends on the cause. Common options include Cox Flexion-Distraction, chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue work, stretching, exercises, and lifestyle modifications.
Is sciatica preventable?
Not all sciatica is preventable, but regular movement, exercise, eating well, and sufficient rest can lower your risk. Preventive chiropractic care can help keep your spine functioning well.
Can sciatic pain go down both legs?
Yes. This can signal spinal cord compression or that both sciatic nerves are affected. If you have leg pain down both legs, have it assessed promptly.
When should I see a doctor for sciatica?
If your pain lasts longer than a week or is worsening, get it checked. If you notice numbness, weakness, or any trouble controlling your bowel or bladder, seek care quickly, these can be signs of a more urgent issue.
Is sciatica worse at night?
It can be. Some people notice sciatic pain worsens at night, especially in certain positions or after a full day of activity. Adjusting sleep positions and addressing the underlying cause can help.