Sciatica in Shelby, NC
If you’re feeling sharp, shooting pain that travels from your lower back down one leg, you could be dealing with sciatica. This common condition can make it hard to sit, stand, walk, or sleep—and when left untreated, it often gets worse over time.
At Lopez Chiropractic in Shelby, NC, Dr. Luis Lopez helps patients find long-term relief from sciatica by addressing the root cause of nerve irritation. With in-house digital X-rays and gentle, targeted treatments, we focus on restoring alignment, reducing inflammation, and helping you move forward without nerve pain—en inglés y español.
Understanding Sciatica in Shelby, NC
Sciatica refers to irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve—the largest nerve in your body. This nerve begins in the lower spine and travels through the hips, buttocks, and down each leg. When it’s pinched or inflamed, it can cause pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness that follows this nerve pathway.
Despite the name, sciatica isn’t a diagnosis—it’s a symptom of an underlying problem, often related to spinal misalignment, disc injury, or muscle tension in the lower back or hips. At Lopez Chiropractic, Dr. Lopez works to identify and treat the source of sciatic nerve irritation to help relieve pain and restore normal nerve function.
Symptoms of Sciatica in Shelby, NC
Sciatica can feel different for everyone, but it typically involves pain or neurological symptoms that travel from the lower back down into one leg. It may come on suddenly or build over time, and can range from mildly uncomfortable to intensely painful.
Sharp, shooting pain in the lower back, or leg
Burning sensations down the back of the thigh
Numbness or weakness in the affected leg or foot
Pain that worsens when sitting, standing, or changing positions
A “pins and needles” feeling in the leg or toes
Difficulty walking, bending, or climbing stairs
Pain that typically affects one side of the body
Common symptoms of sciatica include:
If you're experiencing these symptoms, Dr. Lopez can help determine whether your sciatic nerve is involved—and what’s causing the irritation.
What Causes Sciatica in Shelby, NC
Sciatica is caused by compression, irritation, or inflammation of the sciatic nerve, often stemming from issues in the lower spine or surrounding soft tissues. The key to lasting relief is identifying what’s putting pressure on the nerve in the first place.
Common causes of sciatica include:
Herniated or bulging discs – Discs that shift out of place can press directly on the sciatic nerve roots.
Spinal misalignments (subluxations) – When vertebrae in the lower back are out of alignment, they can disrupt nerve function.
Piriformis syndrome – Tightness in the piriformis muscle in the buttocks can irritate the nerve as it passes underneath.
Degenerative disc disease – Age-related changes can narrow the space around spinal nerves (spinal stenosis).
Injury or trauma – Accidents, falls, or repetitive strain can damage tissues that protect the sciatic nerve.
Pregnancy or postural strain – Extra weight and spinal curve changes can compress nerves in the lower back.
At Lopez Chiropractic, Dr. Lopez performs a full evaluation—including digital X-rays if needed—to pinpoint the source of sciatic irritation and recommend the most effective path forward.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help with Sciatica in Shelby, NC
Chiropractic care is a proven, non-invasive way to relieve sciatica by addressing the underlying structural causes of nerve irritation. Rather than masking pain with medications, Dr. Luis Lopez focuses on restoring alignment, improving mobility, and taking pressure off the sciatic nerve at its source.
Correct spinal misalignments and reduce nerve compression
Restore healthy movement in the hips and lower back
Decrease inflammation and muscle tightness
Support long-term stability and better posture
Reduce flare-ups and prevent the return of symptoms
At Lopez Chiropractic in Shelby, NC, Dr. Luis Lopez provides targeted care that may:
With consistent, targeted care, many patients experience not just relief—but improved mobility and confidence in daily movement.
Our Approach at Lopez Chiropractic in Shelby, NC
At Lopez Chiropractic, we take a full-body, individualized approach to sciatica. Dr. Luis Lopez understands that sciatic pain can come from a number of structural and muscular imbalances, which is why every evaluation goes beyond symptom relief to address the root cause.
We’ll discuss your symptoms, daily activities, and history of back or leg pain to understand your overall spinal health.
One-on-One Consultation
Dr. Lopez will assess how your spine, pelvis, and hips are moving—and how they may be contributing to nerve pressure.
Spinal and Gait Evaluation
When needed, we use advanced imaging to evaluate spinal alignment, disc space, and postural issues with accuracy.
In-House Digital X-Rays
All explanations and recommendations are provided in clear, supportive language—en inglés y español.
Bilingual Support
Every treatment plan is tailored to your needs, with the goal of reducing nerve irritation, restoring movement, and helping you get back to life without sciatica holding you back.
Therapies We May Recommend
Relieving sciatica requires a strategic, whole-body approach. At Lopez Chiropractic, Dr. Lopez may combine several evidence-based therapies to reduce inflammation, release nerve pressure, and improve your mobility over time.
Your personalized treatment plan may include:
Chiropractic Adjustments – Targeted spinal corrections to relieve nerve compression in the lower back
Mechanical Traction – Gently stretches the spine to create space between vertebrae and reduce disc pressure
Graston Technique – Releases soft tissue adhesions and muscle tightness that may be affecting the sciatic nerve pathway
Electric Stimulation Therapy (E-Stim) – Reduces inflammation and calms irritated nerves and muscles
Heat or Ice Therapy – Helps manage swelling and provides short-term pain relief
Stretching and Movement Guidance – Supports long-term improvement with posture correction and home exercises
Each therapy is chosen based on your specific symptoms, spinal findings, and lifestyle—so your body gets exactly what it needs to heal and stay strong.
Treatment at Lopez Chiropractic in Shelby, NC
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Chiropractic Adjustments
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Cryotherapy
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Digital Xrays
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Electric Stimulation Therapy
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Gonstead Technique
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Graston Technique
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Heat Therapy
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Intersegmental Traction Table
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Myofascial Release
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Ultrasound Therapy
Who Gets Sciatica in Shelby, NC
Sciatica is a condition that can affect anyone—but it's especially common in people who spend long hours sitting, perform repetitive physical tasks, or have a history of back problems. At Lopez Chiropractic, we see a wide range of patients struggling with sciatic nerve pain, from young adults to older adults managing chronic discomfort.
Sit for long periods (desk work, driving, etc.)
Do heavy lifting, twisting, or repetitive motion at work
Are recovering from a fall, accident, or disc injury
Have poor posture or core weakness
Are pregnant or have recently given birth
Have a history of spinal misalignment or disc problems
Are over age 40 and noticing joint degeneration or stiffness
You may be more likely to experience sciatica if you:
If you’re dealing with pain that travels down your leg—or a persistent ache in your lower back and hip—Dr. Lopez can help you find the cause and create a personalized plan for relief.
Long-Term Benefits of Chiropractic for Sciatica in Shelby, NC
While pain relief is often the first goal, chiropractic care offers much more than short-term comfort. At Lopez Chiropractic, Dr. Luis Lopez focuses on helping your body heal from the inside out—by correcting misalignments, improving movement patterns, and preventing future nerve irritation.
With consistent care, long-term benefits may include:
Reduced pressure on the sciatic nerve
Fewer flare-ups and less reliance on medication
Improved posture and spinal alignment
Better mobility, balance, and lower body strength
Less inflammation and muscle tightness
Enhanced quality of life with more confident movement
When you treat the cause—not just the pain—you create space for real healing. Chiropractic care gives your body the support it needs to function better now and in the future.
Sciatica FAQs
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In some cases, mild sciatica may improve with rest and stretching. But if your symptoms persist or return frequently, it’s important to find out what's causing the nerve irritation and address it directly.
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We don’t adjust the nerve itself—but we do treat the structures putting pressure on it. By correcting misalignments and improving joint function, chiropractic care relieves the pressure causing your sciatic symptoms.
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Yes. Dr. Lopez uses gentle, specific techniques to relieve nerve compression safely and effectively. Your care plan is based on a full evaluation and, if needed, digital X-rays.
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Many patients feel relief after a few visits, while others with more chronic symptoms may need longer care. Dr. Lopez will review your progress regularly and adjust your plan accordingly.
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Yes—especially if you’re experiencing radiating pain, numbness, or weakness. Our in-house digital X-rays help Dr. Lopez evaluate spinal alignment and guide safe, effective treatment.
Schedule Your Chiropractic Evaluation in Shelby, NC
You don’t have to live with sciatic nerve pain. At Lopez Chiropractic, Dr. Luis Lopez offers in-depth evaluations, on-site digital X-rays, and personalized chiropractic care to help relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve and restore pain-free movement.
Whether your symptoms just started or have been bothering you for years, we’re here to help you feel better—and move forward—with care that’s specific to your needs.
Call our Shelby office at (704) 419-3553 to schedule your chiropractic evaluation today.