
Sciatica and disc herniation rehab in Austin, without surgery
Leg pain, numbness or a disc diagnosis doesn't have to mean surgery or giving up what you love.
Most sciatica and disc herniations get better with the right conservative care. Many disc herniations shrink on their own over time, and guidelines recommend exercise-based rehab before considering surgery. We calm the irritated nerve first, then rebuild your strength so you can get back to lifting, running and sitting with more confidence.
Source: NICE guideline NG59, Low back pain and sciatica in over 16s.
What sciatica actually is
"Sciatica" describes pain that travels down the leg. It's often caused by an irritated nerve root near a disc bulge or herniation, but not always.
That's why we assess the whole picture: how you move, which positions ease it or flare it, and how strong each side is. The plan follows what we find, not a generic protocol.
Calm it down, then build it back
Find what eases it
Identify the positions and movements that settle the leg pain, and use them on purpose.
Reduce pain
Hands-on care and dry needling to reduce pain and protective guarding.
Load it gradually
Progressive strength work so your back and hips can handle real life again, including the gym.
Return with milestones
A return-to-activity plan with clear checkpoints, so you know when it's safe to do more.
Not your typical chiro visit
- 60-minute visits, one-on-one with a Doctor of Chiropractic
- A 3D movement assessment (Kinetisense) so you can see how you move
- Mobility and strength checked side to side, not guessed
- Hands-on care plus a strength plan, never just "rest"
Common questions
Will I need surgery?+
Most people don't. If your symptoms suggest you might, we'll tell you honestly and refer you.
Can I still lift or work out?+
Usually yes, with changes. We'll tell you exactly what to keep and what to swap for now.
My MRI looks scary. Is that bad?+
Disc findings are common in people with no pain at all. The MRI is one piece of the picture, not the whole story.
How soon can I get in?+
We try to see new patients within a week. If you're in a lot of pain, tell us and we'll get you in sooner.
This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Your Root Cause Assessment tells us what's actually going on for you.

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