Sciatica Treatment in Virginia Beach: Causes, Diagnosis, and Relief with New Life Chiropractic
Are you struggling with sharp pain radiating down your leg, numbness, or tingling that starts in your lower back? You might be dealing with sciatica, a common yet often misunderstood condition. At New Life Chiropractic in Virginia Beach, Dr. Mike Geheren and his experienced team specialize in identifying the root cause of sciatica and delivering natural, drug-free relief using cutting-edge chiropractic techniques.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about sciatica: what causes it, how it’s diagnosed, and the best treatment options available—especially chiropractic care.
What Is Sciatica?
Sciatica is not a diagnosis itself but rather a symptom of an underlying issue that affects the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the human body. This nerve runs from your lower back, through the hips and buttocks, and down each leg.
Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, typically affecting only one side of your body. The discomfort can vary from a mild ache to sharp, burning sensations or even severe pain that makes it hard to stand or walk.
Common Causes of Sciatica
Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve is compressed, irritated, or inflamed, usually due to spinal issues. Some of the most common causes include:
1. Herniated or Bulging Discs
Discs act as cushions between the vertebrae in your spine. When a disc herniates or bulges out of place, it can press against the sciatic nerve, causing pain and inflammation.
2. Degenerative Disc Disease
As we age, spinal discs can degenerate and lose their cushioning ability, leading to bone-on-bone contact or nerve compression.
3. Spinal Stenosis
This condition involves the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can pinch the nerves, including the sciatic nerve roots.
4. Piriformis Syndrome
When the piriformis muscle in the buttocks spasms, it can irritate the sciatic nerve nearby, especially if the nerve runs through the muscle.
5. Spondylolisthesis
A slipped vertebra can misalign the spine and put pressure on nerve roots, including the sciatic nerve.
6. Trauma or Injury
Car accidents, falls, or sports injuries can damage the spine or surrounding tissues, leading to sciatic nerve irritation.
Symptoms of Sciatica
Recognizing the symptoms of sciatica is the first step to finding relief. Common signs include:
Sharp pain that starts in the lower back or buttock and travels down the leg
Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
Muscle weakness in the affected leg
Burning or electric-like sensations
Pain that worsens with sitting, coughing, or sneezing
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s essential to seek professional care to determine the cause and begin effective treatment.
How Sciatica Is Diagnosed at New Life Chiropractic
At New Life Chiropractic in Virginia Beach, Dr. Mike Geheren begins every sciatica evaluation with a thorough consultation and examination. The diagnostic process may include:
1. Health History
Understanding your medical background, lifestyle, and when the symptoms began helps us pinpoint the underlying issue.
2. Physical Examination
We assess your spine, posture, range of motion, and muscle strength. Reflexes and nerve function tests help determine if the sciatic nerve is affected.
3. Orthopedic and Neurological Testing
Specific tests, such as the straight leg raise or slump test, help reproduce sciatica symptoms and confirm nerve involvement.
4. Imaging (if needed)
In some cases, we may refer you for imaging such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to visualize disc damage or spinal abnormalities.
Once we identify the cause of your sciatica, we create a personalized treatment plan focused on lasting relief.
Chiropractic Treatment for Sciatica in Virginia Beach
Chiropractic care is one of the most effective and non-invasive ways to treat sciatica. Dr. Geheren at New Life Chiropractic uses a comprehensive approach to realign the spine, relieve nerve pressure, and restore natural function.
1. Chiropractic Adjustments
Gentle spinal adjustments correct misalignments that may be compressing the sciatic nerve. These adjustments help reduce inflammation, restore mobility, and relieve pain.
2. Spinal Decompression Therapy
This non-surgical therapy gently stretches the spine, creating space between the vertebrae and relieving pressure on herniated or bulging discs.
3. Dry Needling
Dry needling targets muscle tension and trigger points in the lower back, glutes, and hips. This technique helps relieve muscle spasms and improve circulation in affected areas.
4. Cupping Therapy
Cupping promotes blood flow and reduces inflammation in the soft tissues surrounding the sciatic nerve, enhancing recovery and pain relief.
5. Ultrasound Therapy
Therapeutic ultrasound uses sound waves to penetrate deep into muscle tissues, increasing circulation and speeding up healing.
6. Rehabilitative Exercises
Dr. Geheren will guide you through specific exercises to strengthen your core and lower back, improving posture and preventing future flare-ups.
Benefits of Choosing Chiropractic Care for Sciatica
Unlike medications or injections that only mask the symptoms, chiropractic care addresses the root cause of sciatica. Some of the key benefits include:
Drug-free pain relief
Improved spinal alignment and posture
Reduced nerve inflammation
Enhanced mobility and flexibility
Long-term prevention of recurring episodes
When to Seek Sciatica Treatment
You should consult a chiropractor if you experience:
Persistent lower back pain radiating down your leg
Numbness, tingling, or weakness in your leg or foot
Difficulty walking or standing due to pain
Pain that interferes with your sleep or daily activities
Ignoring these symptoms can lead to chronic pain or even permanent nerve damage.
Why Choose Dr. Mike Geheren and New Life Chiropractic?
At New Life Chiropractic, we combine personalized care with modern techniques to deliver results. Dr. Mike Geheren is committed to helping patients in Virginia Beach live pain-free without relying on medications or surgery.
We take the time to understand your unique condition and provide a customized treatment plan focused on relieving your pain and restoring your quality of life.
Real Patient Success Stories
“I had sciatica pain for years after a car accident. I tried everything—medications, physical therapy, injections—nothing worked. After just a few visits with Dr. Geheren, I finally started to feel real relief. I’m back to walking, working, and even running again!” – Sarah R.
“New Life Chiropractic gave me my life back. Dr. Mike is caring, professional, and genuinely listens. If you have sciatica, this is the place to go!” – James T.
Book Your Sciatica Consultation Today
Don’t let sciatica keep you from living the life you love. At New Life Chiropractic in Virginia Beach, we’re here to help you find real, lasting relief from nerve pain. Dr. Mike Geheren and his team are ready to guide you back to wellness—naturally and effectively.
📞 Call us today at (757)222-0910
📍 Visit us at [198 S Rosemont Rd]
Final Thoughts
Sciatica can be debilitating, but you don’t have to suffer in silence. Whether your symptoms are new or you’ve struggled for years, chiropractic care offers a proven, drug-free solution. At New Life Chiropractic, we treat the whole person—not just the symptoms—to get you back on your feet and thriving.