Sciatica is pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve — from the lower back, through the buttock, and down one leg. It's almost always caused by compression or irritation of a lumbar nerve root, most often from a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or facet arthritis. The good news: the vast majority of sciatica cases resolve without surgery when treated early with the right combination of decompression, manual therapy, and rehab.
Also known as: Lumbar radiculopathy, Pinched sciatic nerve
Symptoms of sciatica
- Sharp, burning, or shooting pain down one leg
- Pain that worsens with sitting, coughing, or sneezing
- Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot
- Weakness in the affected leg
- Low back pain that feels deep or aching
Common causes
- Lumbar herniated or bulging disc (most common)
- Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
- Degenerative disc disease
- Piriformis syndrome
- Spondylolisthesis (slipped vertebra)
- Trauma from auto accident, slip and fall, or workplace injury
How we treat sciatica
We combine multiple disciplines under one roof so you get the right care for your case — not just whatever one provider happens to offer.
Spinal decompression therapy
Computer-controlled traction that gently reduces disc pressure on the nerve — often the most effective non-surgical option.
Learn more →Chiropractic care
Lumbar adjustments to restore joint motion and reduce nerve irritation.
Learn more →Physical therapy
Core strengthening, McKenzie exercises, and nerve glides to reduce recurrence.
Learn more →Pain management injections
Epidural steroid or transforaminal injections for severe or persistent radicular pain.
Learn more →What to expect on your first visit
- Neurological exam to identify the affected nerve root
- Review of any prior MRI or imaging
- Multi-modal plan starting with the least invasive options
- Re-evaluation every 2–4 weeks to track nerve recovery
- Referral for advanced imaging or surgical opinion only if conservative care plateaus
Frequently asked questions
Can sciatica heal without surgery?
Yes. Most patients (around 80–90%) recover fully with conservative care like spinal decompression, chiropractic adjustments, physical therapy, and — when needed — epidural injections. Surgery is reserved for cases with progressive weakness or failed conservative treatment.
How long until I feel relief from sciatica?
Many patients notice significant improvement within 2–4 weeks of starting decompression and chiropractic care. Full recovery typically takes 6–12 weeks depending on the underlying disc or nerve issue.
Should I rest or stay active with sciatica?
Brief rest (1–2 days) is fine for severe flare-ups, but prolonged bed rest worsens outcomes. Gentle walking and prescribed exercises speed recovery.
Ready to start treatment?
Same-day appointments available. We accept most major insurance, workers' comp, and personal injury liens.
Related conditions we treat
Other spine and musculoskeletal conditions commonly seen alongside sciatica.
Herniated Disc
A herniated disc happens when the soft inner core of a spinal disc pushes through a tear in the tough outer layer, often pressing on a nearby nerve root. It can occur in the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), or lumbar (low back) spine. While the term sounds alarming, most herniated discs respond very well to non-surgical care that combines decompression, chiropractic adjustments, and rehab.
Learn more →Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots. It most commonly affects the lumbar (low back) and cervical (neck) regions and is usually age-related. Many patients can manage stenosis effectively with a combination of decompression, manual therapy, targeted exercise, and — when needed — interventional pain procedures.
Learn more →Degenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative disc disease isn't really a disease — it's the gradual wear-and-tear that happens to spinal discs as we age. Many people have disc degeneration on imaging without any pain at all. The job is to figure out whether your discs are actually the source of your pain, and if so, to combine decompression, manual therapy, and rehab to relieve it without surgery.
Learn more →