I have sciatica exactly like you describe it, but mine started mysteriously. I went to a chiropractor, because of a recommmendation from a freind. (previously I thought the were quacks.) They diagnosed piriformis syndrome, and adjustments gave me IMMEDIATE relief. At its very worst, my entire leg went numb (before seeing her.) I still have a small area of numbness about two inches in diameter, right under my little toe. My sciatica can recur if I get stressed or travel , or just sit too much. but I haven't had a real recurrance for several years. My hamstrings are incredibly tight, which also contributes. And when not in pain, I have better things to do than stretch.

Since you had an injury, I don't know if yours could be the same cause.

I have also heard strange things about some Chiropractors, such as requiring payments in advance for two years of treatments, requiring lengthy periods of treatments. ( I had six or eight twice a week, while the pain kept recurring and I was taught stretches) Mine was done at a school clinic, so they weren't making money off of me. The one time I saw a private chiropractor, I only saw her twice, sadly, she is too far to go by bus.

After one thing I read about neck adjustments, I will never allow those! I don't know what risks if any come from lumbar manipulations.

I have seen acupuncture work extremely well for various things, but I have not used it for this.

But just my personal, anecdotal experience, for what its worth. And I think I will also take a look at that book sounds right on the money.

Mary