Sciatica Treatment
The Woodlands & Spring, Texas

Shooting leg pain, numbness, or tingling usually starts in the lower back. We find exactly where the nerve is being irritated and treat the cause, without surgery or long-term medication.

Why Your Leg Hurts When the Problem Is in Your Back

Sciatica is not a diagnosis on its own. It describes pain that follows the path of the sciatic nerve, from the lower back through the buttock and down the back of the leg.

The sciatic nerve is formed by nerve roots that exit the lower spine. When one of those roots is compressed or inflamed, by a bulging or herniated disc, a narrowed opening in the spine, or a tight muscle in the hip, the pain travels along the nerve. That is why many people feel it most in the leg or foot, even though the source is higher up.

Most cases of sciatica improve with conservative care. The key is identifying which structure is irritating the nerve, because a disc problem, a joint problem, and a muscle problem each respond best to a different approach.

Shooting Leg Pain

Sharp or burning pain that runs from the buttock down the back of the thigh or calf

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Numbness & Tingling

Pins-and-needles or a "dead" feeling in the leg, foot, or toes

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Worse With Sitting

Pain that builds with long drives, desk work, or bending forward

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Leg Weakness

A heavy leg or difficulty lifting the foot or toes

Common Causes of Sciatica We Evaluate

Herniated or Bulging Disc Degenerative Disc Disease Spinal Stenosis Piriformis Syndrome Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Dysfunction Spondylolisthesis Pregnancy-Related Sciatica Muscle Imbalance & Posture Prolonged Sitting

How We Treat Sciatica

Your plan depends on what your exam and imaging show. Most sciatica plans combine two or three of the following:

1

Pinpoint the Source

Orthopedic and neurological testing, plus on-site digital X-rays when needed, to find where the nerve is irritated

2

Take Pressure Off

IDD Therapy spinal decompression for disc-related sciatica, or gentle adjustments for joint-related pain

3

Calm the Tissue

Softwave TRT to improve blood flow and support healing in irritated muscles and soft tissue

4

Keep It From Returning

Corrective exercises for core and hip stability, plus sitting and lifting habits

We track your progress at every visit. If you are not improving as expected, or your exam suggests something that needs a specialist, we will tell you and help you get the right referral.

When to Get Medical Care Right Away

Most cases are not an emergency, but some symptoms need prompt medical attention. Contact your doctor right away, or call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if symptoms are sudden or severe, if you have:

Seek urgent care for:

  • Numbness in the groin, inner thighs, or "saddle" area
  • New trouble controlling your bladder or bowels
  • Leg weakness that is getting worse quickly
  • Sciatica after a fall, car accident, or other significant injury
  • Back or leg pain with fever or unexplained weight loss

Sciatica Questions

How long does sciatica take to go away?
Many cases of sciatica improve within a few weeks to a few months with conservative care. How quickly you improve depends on the cause, how long you have had symptoms, and how consistently you follow your plan. Dr. Etemadi will give you a realistic timeline after your exam.
Should I use heat or ice for sciatica?
Ice can help calm a recent flare-up in the first few days. Heat often feels better for tight muscles after that. Neither treats the cause, so if pain lasts more than a week or two, it is worth getting evaluated.
Can a chiropractor help with sciatica from a herniated disc?
Yes, in many cases. Disc-related sciatica often responds to non-surgical spinal decompression, targeted adjustments, and exercises that reduce pressure on the nerve. Your exam determines whether you are a good candidate.
Do I need an MRI before treatment?
Not usually. Most patients can start care based on a thorough exam and X-rays when needed. If your symptoms suggest a more serious problem or do not improve, we will recommend an MRI.
Is sciatica treatment covered by insurance?
Chiropractic exams and adjustments are covered by many plans, and we are in-network with Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and UnitedHealthcare. Spinal decompression and Softwave TRT are self-pay services.

Related Care at Prestige Spinal Care

Get Answers About Your Sciatica

Start with our $99 Relief & Recovery Special: a full consultation, exam, X-rays at the doctor's discretion, and one Softwave TRT or Spinal Decompression session. We serve patients from The Woodlands, Spring, Shenandoah, Conroe, and Tomball.