Sciatica vs Low Back Pain: What’s the Difference?
Back pain is one of the most common reasons people come to see us at Wellbeing Chiropractic. But not all back pain is the same and one of the most important distinctions is whether it’s general low back pain or sciatica, which involves irritation of a major nerve.
Understanding the difference helps us choose the right approach and, more importantly, helps you get results faster.
What Is Low Back Pain?
Low back pain is discomfort, stiffness, or aching in the area between the bottom of the ribcage and the top of the pelvis. It can come on suddenly or build over time.
Common causes include:
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Muscle strain or fatigue
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Poor posture or prolonged sitting
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Spinal joint dysfunction
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Overuse or repetitive movements
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Lifting or twisting the wrong way
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Lack of movement or core strength
Low back pain may feel localised and dull, or sharp with certain movements. And while it’s very common, it should never be ignored, especially if it starts to limit your ability to move, sleep, or work.
What Is Sciatica?
Sciatica is a specific type of nerve-related pain that occurs when the sciatic nerve is compressed or irritated. This nerve runs from your lower spine down through the buttocks and into each leg.
Sciatic pain usually affects one side of the body and may include:
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Pain that starts in the back or hip and radiates down the leg
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Tingling or pins and needles in the leg or foot
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Numbness or a heavy feeling in the leg
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Pain that worsens with sitting or driving
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Weakness in one leg
Sciatica is not just a more intense version of back pain, it’s a different condition altogether, and it often requires a different type of care.
Key Differences: Sciatica vs Low Back Pain
| Feature | Low Back Pain | Sciatica |
| Pain location | Confined to the lower back | Travels from back to leg |
| Pain type | Achy, stiff, sometimes sharp | Shooting, burning, tingling |
| Numbness or weakness | Uncommon | Often present |
| Side of body | Can affect both sides | Usually one side only |
| Primary cause | Muscles, joints, posture | Nerve compression or irritation |
Can You Have Both?
Yes, and many people do.
Often, low back pain and sciatica are interconnected. A misalignment in the lower spine or pelvis may cause both muscular pain and nerve pressure. That’s why treating only one part of the problem often doesn’t lead to long-term relief.
Why Chiropractic Is a Smart First Step
When it comes to both sciatica and low back pain, chiropractic care is ideally placed to assess and address the root cause.
Unlike general approaches that may only treat the symptoms, chiropractors assess:
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The alignment of your spine and pelvis
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Nerve function and joint mobility
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How your posture and movement may be contributing to pain
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Where inflammation or pressure is building
From there, we develop a care plan that may include gentle adjustments, tailored exercises, posture support, and advice for reducing irritation to the area.
At Wellbeing Chiropractic, we work to relieve pain but also to restore proper function, improve movement, and reduce the chance of flare-ups.
Chiropractic for Sciatica and Low Back Pain
Our experienced chiropractors across Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney, and regional locations have helped thousands of people find relief from both sciatica and general back pain.
Whether your symptoms are new or have been lingering for years, we take the time to understand your condition and create a care plan that suits your goals and lifestyle.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re unsure whether your pain is coming from your muscles, joints, or nerves, we’re here to help.
Book a visit with your local Wellbeing Chiropractic clinic today. Together, we’ll uncover what’s causing your discomfort—and help you take confident steps toward recovery.
Because you deserve to feel better, move better, and live well.
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