Frequently Asked Questions About Sciatica, Low Back Pain, and Chiropractic Treatments
At Everybody’s Chiropractic Center in Upper Darby, PA, we often hear the same questions from people suffering from sciatica, low back pain, or seeking non-invasive treatment options. This FAQ-style blog post is designed to answer the exact questions people search—so you can find clear, trustworthy information quickly.
What is sciatica?
Sciatica is pain that radiates from the lower back down through the buttock and into one or both legs. It is caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, often due to a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or other spinal misalignment.
Why do I have low back pain when sitting?
Sitting puts pressure on your spine, especially the discs and surrounding tissues. Poor posture, weak core muscles, and spinal misalignment can cause or intensify low back pain when seated.
How does chiropractic care help back pain?
Chiropractic care uses hands-on spinal adjustments to realign vertebrae, reduce nerve irritation, improve joint mobility, and restore proper movement patterns—all contributing to reduced pain and improved function.
What happens during a chiropractic adjustment?
During an adjustment, the chiropractor applies a precise, controlled force to a joint—often producing a popping sound called cavitation. This helps release pressure, restore motion, and alleviate discomfort.
Is Shockwave therapy the same as SoftWave therapy?
No. Shockwave therapy (radial pulse therapy) and SoftWave therapy both use sound waves to promote healing and reduce pain—but SoftWave therapy uses gentler, deeper-penetrating waves that stimulate tissue regeneration without discomfort.
What conditions can shockwave or SoftWave therapy treat?
Shockwave and SoftWave therapy can help treat conditions like tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, shoulder pain, chronic muscular pain, sciatica, and joint stiffness. They work by increasing circulation, reducing inflammation, and triggering natural healing.
Is SoftWave therapy safe for low back pain?
Yes. SoftWave therapy is non-invasive, safe, and generally well tolerated. It can be a valuable adjunct to chiropractic care in relieving low back and sciatic pain by encouraging natural healing and reducing inflammation.
How does spinal decompression therapy work?
Spinal decompression therapy uses a motorized table to gently stretch the spine, creating negative pressure within spinal discs. This helps retract herniated material, reduce nerve pressure, and improve nutrient flow for healing.
Can spinal decompression therapy cure sciatica?
Spinal decompression is highly effective for many causes of sciatica, especially herniated or bulging discs and degenerative disc conditions. Combined with chiropractic adjustments, it can significantly reduce nerve inflammation and pain.
How long does it take to feel relief from chiropractic care?
Many patients notice improvement after 1–3 visits. However, chronic or severe cases often require several weeks of consistent care, including adjustments, decompression, and advanced therapies like SoftWave.
Are chiropractic adjustments painful?
No. Adjustments are generally gentle and painless. Patients may feel a mild push or stretch—some even find the popping sound enjoyable. If you prefer, we offer low-force techniques that don’t create that sound.
Is spinal decompression painful?
No. Spinal decompression is painless and relaxing. Patients lie comfortably on a traction table while the device gently stretches the spine through computer-controlled settings.
Will I need X-rays for sciatica treatment?
Often, yes. On-site digital X-rays help us accurately identify spinal misalignments, disc issues, and joint degeneration—ensuring a personalized treatment plan with chiropractic and decompression interventions.
Can I combine chiropractic care with physical therapy?
Absolutely. Many patients benefit from a combination of chiropractic adjustments and physical therapy exercises. At Everybody’s Chiropractic Center, we integrate therapies like SoftWave and decompression with tailored rehab exercises when appropriate.
What can I do at home to relieve sciatica?
Helpful home habits include:
- Gentle stretching and mobility exercises
- Core strengthening routines
- Proper posture at your desk and while driving
- Applying ice or heat as needed
- Walking for 20–30 minutes daily
These strategies, combined with in-office care, speed up recovery.
When should I see a chiropractor for my sciatica?
Visit a chiropractor if your sciatica or low back pain:
- Lasts more than a few days
- Interferes with daily life
- Causes leg numbness or weakness
- Poorly responds to rest or home-based remedies
Early care often leads to better outcomes.
What makes Everybody’s Chiropractic Center different?
Located in Upper Darby and serving Havertown and Drexel Hill, our office combines:
- Experienced chiropractic adjustments
- On-site digital X-rays
- Non-invasive SoftWave and radial shockwave therapy
- Spinal decompression for disc and sciatic conditions
We create customized, integrative treatment plans to restore function and help you move pain-free.
How do I schedule an appointment at Everybody’s Chiropractic Center?
Call us at 610-789-1800 or visit our website to book a consultation. Let’s work together to put you back in control of your health—without drugs or surgery.