Sciatica & Nerve Pain Treatment

Sciatica is one of the most painful and disruptive conditions a person can experience — a sharp, shooting pain that travels from the lower back through the buttock and down the leg, sometimes reaching the foot. At Empire Chiropractic in Nyack, NY, Dr. Jerome Greenberg provides highly effective, drug-free treatment for sciatica and nerve pain through targeted chiropractic care.

The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the body. When it becomes compressed or irritated — typically by a herniated disc, bone spur, or spinal misalignment — it produces the characteristic burning, shooting pain along its path. Chiropractic care works by correcting the underlying spinal dysfunction that is pinching the nerve, allowing the body to heal naturally.

## What Causes Sciatica?

Sciatica is most commonly caused by a herniated or bulging lumbar disc pressing on the nerve root, piriformis syndrome where the piriformis muscle in the buttock irritates the sciatic nerve, lumbar spinal stenosis which is a narrowing of the spinal canal, degenerative disc disease, or subluxations (misalignments) in the lumbar spine. Dr. Greenberg will identify the specific cause during your evaluation to ensure the most effective treatment approach.

## How Chiropractic Treats Sciatica

Chiropractic adjustments gently realign the lumbar spine to reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve. Dr. Greenberg may also incorporate spinal decompression therapy, which gently stretches the spine to relieve disc pressure and promote healing, as well as soft tissue techniques to release muscle tension around the nerve. This combination addresses both the symptoms and their root cause.

Spinal decompression is particularly effective for sciatica caused by herniated or bulging discs. By creating negative pressure within the disc, the treatment encourages the disc material to retract away from the nerve, reducing compression and allowing the disc to heal. Cold laser therapy may also be used to reduce inflammation around the nerve and accelerate tissue repair.

Unlike cortisone injections or surgery, chiropractic care for sciatica is non-invasive, has minimal risk, and addresses the true source of the problem. Dr. Greenberg accepts most insurance plans and welcomes patients from Nyack, Valley Cottage, West Nyack, Piermont, and throughout Rockland County. Call (917) 882-9635 to schedule your free consultation.