SI Joint & Sciatica Care

Understanding SI Joint Dysfunction and Sciatica

The sacroiliac (SI) joints connect your pelvis to your sacrum at the base of the spine. When these joints become misaligned, inflamed, or hypermobile, the resulting pain can be severe — often mimicking sciatica or herniated disc symptoms. True sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body, becomes compressed or irritated as it exits the lumbar spine and travels through the buttock and down the leg.

Both conditions can cause debilitating pain that radiates from the low back through the buttock and into the leg. Many patients describe it as a sharp, burning, or electric sensation that makes sitting, standing, and walking extremely uncomfortable.

Dr. Clark’s Diagnostic Approach

At Aloha Wellness, Dr. Clayton Clark uses a systematic approach to determine whether your pain is originating from the SI joint, the sciatic nerve, or both — because the treatment for each is different.

Insight© Nerve Scanning reveals areas of nerve interference along the lumbar and sacral spine, providing an objective picture of where the problem lies. Combined with orthopedic testing, palpation, and a thorough health history, Dr. Clark can pinpoint the source of your pain with precision.

Common findings include:

• SI joint misalignment or fixation
• Lumbar subluxation compressing the sciatic nerve
• Piriformis muscle spasm (piriformis syndrome) entrapping the sciatic nerve
• Disc bulge or herniation at L4-L5 or L5-S1
• Pelvic imbalance creating uneven stress on the SI joints

Treatment That Addresses the Root Cause

Dr. Clark’s treatment plan is tailored to your specific diagnosis:

• SI joint adjustments — gentle, targeted corrections to restore proper alignment and mobility to the sacroiliac joints
• Lumbar spine adjustments — relieving nerve compression at the spinal level where the sciatic nerve exits
• Soft tissue work — releasing piriformis and gluteal muscle tension that may be entrapping the sciatic nerve
• Pelvic balancing — ensuring both sides of the pelvis are level and functioning symmetrically
• Anti-inflammatory nutritional support — targeted supplements to reduce nerve inflammation and accelerate healing
• Home stretches and exercises — specific movements to maintain your progress between visits

Signs You May Have SI Joint or Sciatic Problems

• Pain in the low back, buttock, or hip that worsens with sitting
• Sharp or burning pain radiating down one leg
• Pain that intensifies when climbing stairs or getting out of a car
• Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
• Difficulty standing up from a seated position
• Pain that shifts from one side of the low back to the other
• Stiffness in the morning that eases with movement

Recovery Timeline

Most patients with SI joint dysfunction or sciatica begin experiencing relief within the first 2-4 visits. Dr. Clark uses follow-up Insight© scans to track nerve function improvements and adjust your care plan accordingly. The typical treatment course ranges from 4-8 weeks depending on the severity and chronicity of your condition.

Don’t let sciatica control your life. Call (210) 988-9388 or request your appointment today.