Headaches and Sciatica

Chiropractic care may help cervicogenic and tension type headaches, and migraines that trigger from neck or jaw pain.

• Neck-related causes
• Postural factors

They originate from neck joint dysfunction. The pain then refers to the head causing a headache.

• Often one-sided
• Neck movement related

Chiropractic may assist some migraine sufferers, if their trigger involved neck or jaw pain.

• Co-managed care
• Individual results vary

The sciatic nerve is a major nerve running down your leg. When it gets pinched at some point along the nerve, it creates shooting pain with or without pins and needles, numbness, and other neurological symptoms. Common places for this nerve to get pinched is at the spinal root, or a muscle in your buttock called the piriformis.

• Lumbar nerve involvement
• Common in seated workers

Chiropractic may reduce nerve irritation and muscle tension. We assess where along the nerve is being pinched, and use techniques to take the pressure off that nerve.

• Conservative care
• Non-surgical

Duration varies depending on cause and care. Neurological tissue takes longer to heal than regular tissue unfortunately, so you cannot expect overnight results.

• Acute vs chronic
• Early care helps

Many things can cause sciatica, it depends where the nerve is being pinched from. However, prolonged sitting and poor posture can often worsen symptoms.

• Driving
• Desk work

Gentle, guided movement is usually recommended. It is important to listen to your body, however stay active within your limits.

• Avoid aggravating positions

Any headaches we advise being checked. However if headaches are frequent or worsening, assessment is particularly advised.

• Rule out serious causes
• Early management