Recognize the Signs
Are You Experiencing Any of These Symptoms?
Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve — the longest nerve in your body — is compressed or irritated. The pain can range from a dull ache to a sharp, burning sensation that makes everyday activities unbearable. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, your lower back needs professional attention:
Sciatica rarely resolves on its own. Without treatment, the nerve compression can worsen and lead to permanent damage. Don't wait for it to get better — get it treated.
Schedule Your EvaluationHow We Treat It
Your Sciatica Recovery Plan
We target the root cause of your sciatica — whether it's a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or misalignment — using the most advanced non-surgical therapies available.
SpineMED Decompression
Our primary treatment for disc-related sciatica. FDA-cleared precision decompression creates negative pressure to retract herniated disc material away from the sciatic nerve.
Learn More →Shockwave Therapy
Breaks up scar tissue and chronic inflammation around the sciatic nerve. Accelerates tissue healing and provides lasting pain relief for stubborn cases.
Learn More →Chiropractic Adjustments
Restores proper spinal alignment to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve. Improves mobility, reduces inflammation, and supports long-term recovery.
Learn More →What to Expect
Your First Visit for Sciatica
Consultation & History
We discuss when your pain started, where it radiates, what makes it better or worse, and any previous treatments you've tried. Available in English or Korean.
Comprehensive Examination
A thorough physical and neurological examination including straight leg raise tests, reflex testing, and range of motion assessment. We identify exactly where the sciatic nerve is being compressed.
Imaging if Needed
On-site digital X-rays to evaluate spinal alignment and disc spacing. If we suspect a herniated disc, we may recommend an MRI for a detailed look at the soft tissue structures around the nerve.
Personalized Treatment Plan
Based on your diagnosis, we create a targeted recovery plan. For disc-related sciatica, SpineMED decompression is typically our primary approach, often combined with adjustments and therapeutic exercises.
Treatment Begins & Progress Tracking
Most patients begin treatment on their first visit. We monitor your progress at every session, adjusting the plan as the nerve compression improves. Our goal is full resolution — not just symptom management.
Stop Living Around the Pain. Fix It.
Sciatica doesn't go away by ignoring it. Every week you wait, the nerve compression can worsen. Our SpineMED decompression system is one of only a handful in Los Angeles — and it's specifically designed for the disc problems that cause sciatica.
No injections, no medication dependency
Precision decompression for herniated discs
We verify your benefits before treatment
"I had sciatica pain shooting down my left leg for months. I could barely sit at my desk for work. Dr. Ji recommended SpineMED decompression and within the first few sessions I could already feel the difference. After 6 weeks, the radiating pain was completely gone. I wish I hadn't waited so long to come in."
Google Review · Sciatica Patient
Common Questions
Sciatica & Lower Back Pain FAQ
Can chiropractic care fix sciatica?
Yes. Chiropractic care is one of the most effective non-surgical treatments for sciatica. By realigning the spine and relieving pressure on the sciatic nerve, chiropractic adjustments address the root cause of sciatica rather than just masking the pain. Combined with SpineMED decompression for disc-related cases, most patients experience significant relief within a few weeks.
How long does sciatica recovery take with chiropractic treatment?
Most patients feel noticeable improvement within 2-4 weeks of consistent treatment. Mild sciatica caused by muscle tightness or minor misalignment may resolve in 4-6 weeks. More severe cases involving herniated discs or significant nerve compression may require 2-3 months of treatment. We track your progress at every visit and adjust your plan as you improve.
What exercises should I avoid if I have sciatica?
Avoid heavy deadlifts, weighted squats, toe touches, and any exercise that involves bending forward at the waist. High-impact activities like running on hard surfaces can also aggravate sciatica. Sit-ups and leg presses put additional strain on the lower back and should be avoided until symptoms resolve. We'll provide you with a list of safe stretches and exercises that support your recovery.
What is the difference between sciatica and regular back pain?
Regular back pain stays localized in the lower back area. Sciatica is specifically caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, which produces a distinct radiating pain that travels from the lower back through the buttock and down one leg. Sciatica often includes numbness, tingling, or a burning sensation along the nerve path. An accurate diagnosis is important because the treatments differ.
When should I see a doctor for sciatica?
See a chiropractor or doctor if your sciatic pain lasts more than a week, gets progressively worse, or is accompanied by numbness, weakness in your legs, or loss of bladder or bowel control. Sudden severe sciatica after an injury also warrants immediate attention. Early treatment prevents the condition from becoming chronic and reduces the risk of permanent nerve damage.
Can sciatica come back after treatment?
Sciatica can recur if the underlying cause is not fully addressed. That's why we focus on correcting the root issue — whether it's a herniated disc, spinal misalignment, or muscle imbalance — rather than just relieving symptoms. We also provide preventive exercises, ergonomic guidance, and maintenance care plans to minimize the risk of recurrence. Patients who follow their full treatment plan have significantly lower recurrence rates.
End the Sciatica Pain. Start Healing Today.
Same-day appointments available. Most insurance accepted.
