How do I know if my sciatica is caused by a disc problem?

The most reliable way is through imaging — an MRI will show disc position and any nerve compression. If you haven't had imaging, your symptom pattern can also provide strong clues. Sciatica that radiates below the knee, causes numbness or tingling in the foot, or worsens when sitting is often disc-related. We'll review any existing imaging during your consultation.

Can sciatica go away on its own?

Sometimes. Mild sciatica from a minor disc irritation can resolve with rest and conservative care. But sciatica that has been present for more than a few weeks, that radiates below the knee, or that keeps returning despite treatment is less likely to resolve without addressing the underlying disc issue directly.

Is spinal decompression painful?

No. Most patients find decompression sessions comfortable and some find them relaxing. The traction is computer-controlled and gentle — the table cycles gradually through tension and relaxation. If you have a very acute flare-up, we'll adjust the protocol accordingly.

How is spinal decompression different from regular traction?

Traditional traction applies a constant pulling force. Spinal decompression uses computer-controlled, variable traction that cycles between tension and relaxation. This cycling motion is what creates the negative pressure inside the disc — something constant traction doesn't achieve as effectively.

How many sessions does it take to see improvement?

Many patients notice early changes within the first two to three weeks of treatment. A full decompression program typically involves 12 to 24 sessions over six to twelve weeks. We reassess regularly and will tell you clearly if the treatment is working.

Can I do spinal decompression if I've already had back surgery?

It depends on the type of surgery. Some patients who have had prior spinal surgery are good candidates for decompression; others are not. We'll review your surgical history during your consultation and give you an honest assessment.

Do you accept insurance for spinal decompression?

Spinal decompression is not covered by insurance. We offer clear, all-inclusive session pricing and will walk you through your options at your consultation. Our broader chiropractic services are covered by most major insurance plans.

Lower Back Pain in Stow, MA — What’s Really Behind It (And How to Get Lasting Relief)

By Dr. Todd Whittemore | June 2, 2026

Lower back pain is one of the most common health complaints in adults — and one of the most treatable. Most cases come from the muscles, joints, or discs of the spine, and the large majority improve with conservative, non-surgical care such as chiropractic adjustments, targeted exercise, and, when a disc is involved, spinal decompression. At Stow Family Chiropractic, our goal is to find what is actually causing your pain and address the root cause — not just quiet the symptom for a few days.

What causes lower back pain?

Lower back pain usually traces back to one of a handful of sources. Pinpointing which one is driving your pain is the first step toward lasting relief. The most common causes we see are:

Muscle and ligament strain — from lifting, a sudden movement, or simply overdoing it.
Joint irritation — the small facet joints of the spine can become inflamed and stiff.
Disc problems — a herniated, bulging, or degenerating disc can press on nearby nerves.
Posture and desk work — long hours at a screen are a leading driver of back pain among the tech and biotech professionals throughout the Stow, Maynard, and Acton area.
Wear and tear over time — the spine changes with age, and small imbalances add up.

Disc-related vs. non-disc lower back pain

Not all back pain is the same. Pain that stays local to the lower back is often muscle or joint related, while pain that travels into the buttock or down the leg often points to a disc pressing on a nerve. If your pain radiates, it is worth reading more about herniated and bulging discs and sciatica, since the right treatment depends on the source.

When should you see a chiropractor for lower back pain?

It is reasonable to seek care when back pain lasts more than a week or two, keeps coming back, limits your normal activities, or radiates into your hip or leg. Earlier care often means a shorter, simpler road to relief. Some symptoms warrant prompt medical attention rather than waiting — including severe or worsening weakness, numbness in the groin area, or loss of bladder or bowel control. If you experience any of those, seek immediate care.

How does chiropractic care treat lower back pain?

At Stow Family Chiropractic, care begins with a thorough assessment — including a detailed history, a physical exam, and digital X-ray when appropriate — so we understand what is actually causing your pain before we treat it. From there, your care is built around the root cause. Depending on what we find, that may include:

Chiropractic adjustments to restore proper movement and relieve pressure on irritated joints and nerves.
Therapeutic exercise to strengthen and stabilize the muscles that support your spine.
Erchonia cold laser therapy to support tissue healing and reduce inflammation — a technology offered by very few clinics in Massachusetts.
Custom orthotics when posture or foot mechanics are contributing to the problem.
Spinal decompression for disc-related pain, using a gentle, non-surgical approach to take pressure off the affected disc and nerve.

guide to lower back pain treatment near you

Spinal decompression therapy on a KDT Neural Flex table at Stow Family Chiropractic in Stow, MA

Can lower back pain be relieved without drugs or surgery?

For most people, yes. The large majority of lower back pain improves with conservative, drug-free care that helps the body do what it is designed to do — heal. Many of our patients come to us after trying medication or feeling stuck in the traditional system, and they are looking for a natural path forward. Our approach is built entirely around restoring function and supporting your body’s own ability to recover, without reaching first for drugs or surgery.

What to expect at your first visit

Your first visit is about understanding, not pressure. We take the time to evaluate your spine, explain what we find in plain language, and walk you through a personalized care plan in an education-based Report of Findings. You will leave knowing what is causing your pain and exactly how we plan to help — and you will never feel pushed. That no-pressure, thorough approach is a big part of why so many of our patients come to us through referrals from friends and family.

Lower back pain care for Stow and the surrounding communities

Stow Family Chiropractic serves patients throughout Stow, Maynard, Acton, Bolton, Hudson, Concord, Sudbury, Boxborough, and Marlborough. If lower back pain is getting in the way of your day, we would be glad to help you understand what is going on and what your options are.

Ready to get to the root of your back pain?

Call or text us today — 118 Great Rd, Suite 205, Stow, MA

Call or Text 978-897-1770

Frequently asked questions about lower back pain

What is the most common cause of lower back pain?

Most lower back pain comes from the muscles, ligaments, or joints of the spine, often triggered by strain, poor posture, or prolonged sitting. In some cases the source is a disc that is bulging or herniated and pressing on a nearby nerve. Identifying the specific cause is the key to choosing the right treatment.

Can a chiropractor help with lower back pain?

Yes. Chiropractic care is a well-established, conservative option for lower back pain. By restoring proper movement to the spine, relieving pressure on irritated joints and nerves, and strengthening the muscles that support the back, chiropractic care helps many people find relief without drugs or surgery.

Is lower back pain treatment covered by insurance?

Chiropractic care for lower back pain is covered by many insurance plans, and our team is happy to verify your benefits before you begin. Some specialized treatments, such as spinal decompression, are typically not covered by insurance and are paid out of pocket. We will always be clear with you about what your care involves.

How long does it take to feel relief from lower back pain?

It varies from person to person. Some patients notice meaningful relief within the first few visits, while others with longstanding or disc-related issues take longer. Because every spine and every cause is different, we build an individualized care plan rather than promising a fixed timeline.

When should I see a doctor for lower back pain?

Seek care when back pain lasts more than a week or two, keeps returning, limits your daily activities, or radiates into your leg. Certain symptoms call for prompt medical attention rather than waiting, including severe or worsening weakness, numbness in the groin area, or loss of bladder or bowel control.