Low back pain & sciatica
From the dull ache of a long day at the desk to sharp pain that shoots down the leg — we find what’s actually driving it and build the shortest sensible path back to moving freely.
Chiropractic care is a proven first-line treatment for low back pain — the American College of Physicians recommends spinal manipulation as a non-drug treatment for both acute and chronic low back pain. Pain can come from a strained muscle, an irritated joint, an SI-joint problem, or a disc pressing on a nerve; sciatica is that last pattern radiating down the leg. Acute episodes often improve within a handful of visits, and our exam identifies which cause is driving yours.
Most back pain in our corner of San Diego has a mechanical reason behind it: hours at a workstation, repetitive lifting, or a body that’s lost some of the support it needs. The good news is that mechanical problems respond well to hands-on care plus the right movement.
Common causes we see
- Long hours sitting at a desk or lab bench
- Lifting, bending or twisting with poor mechanics
- Weak or deconditioned core and hip muscles
- Disc bulges or herniation pressing on a nerve
- Old injuries that never fully resolved
How we treat it
We start with a thorough exam to pinpoint the source — joint, disc, muscle or nerve — and refer for imaging if it’s warranted. From there, care typically combines gentle spinal adjustment to restore motion, soft-tissue and massage work to release tight muscles, and targeted therapies to calm things down.
Then we give you simple corrective exercises so the relief actually holds. For sciatica and suspected disc involvement, we tailor technique carefully and progress at a pace your nerve is comfortable with.
Can a chiropractor help with sciatica?
Often, yes. When sciatica comes from a mechanical cause — a compressed or irritated nerve in the low back — chiropractic adjustment, soft-tissue work and targeted exercise can reduce the pressure and calm the nerve. We examine first to confirm it’s appropriate and refer out if needed.
How long until my back feels better?
Many acute episodes ease within a few weeks of consistent care, while longer-standing problems take longer. We’ll give you an honest timeline after your exam rather than an open-ended plan.
How many visits will I need?
It depends on how severe your condition is and how long you've had it. After your exam, the doctor explains exactly what they found and lays out a clear plan — including how many visits to expect — before any treatment begins. Many patients notice meaningful improvement within the first few visits.
Is chiropractic care safe for back pain?
For most people, yes. Every new patient starts with a thorough history and exam so we can rule out anything that needs medical attention first. We tailor techniques to your comfort, use gentler approaches when appropriate, and refer you to the right provider if chiropractic isn't the best fit.
Can I get a same-day appointment?
Often, yes. We keep room in the schedule for same-day visits Monday through Friday, 9am–6pm. Call 858-455-7654 and we'll do our best to see you today — or request a time online and we'll confirm by phone.
Related care
Move better. Start with one appointment.
Same-week visits are usually available. Tell us what’s going on and we’ll get you scheduled.