Sciatica
Sciatica is a symptom, not a diagnosis. It means something is irritating the sciatic nerve, or the nerve roots in the low back that form it. MedlinePlus describes pain, weakness, numbness or tingling that can start in the low back and run down the leg to the calf, foot or toes. Common causes include a herniated disc, spinal stenosis (a narrowing of the spinal canal) and piriformis syndrome, which involves a muscle in the buttock. At Broadway Chiropractic and Wellness, at 1410 Broadway in Midtown Manhattan, the first step is an evaluation to find out what's behind your symptoms.
Common signs
- Pain down the back of the leg, usually on one side
- A tingling, dull ache or burning feeling along the leg
- Weakness in the leg, or trouble bending your foot down or walking on your toes
- Pain that gets worse after standing or sitting, or when you sneeze, cough or laugh
Who you'll see
Your chiropractic evaluation is with Dr. Jeffrey Klein, DC, who has led the practice since 1998 and holds New York State chiropractic license 008414. Physical therapy at 1410 Broadway is provided by Core One Physical Therapy, brought to you by Broadway Chiropractic and Wellness. Acupuncture with Yong Shuang (Sandy) Cai, an acupuncturist, can also be part of a plan.
Chiropractic care and physical therapy for sciatica
Chiropractic care centers on the spine and joints. After the exam, Dr. Klein may suggest adjustments (spinal manipulation) and home exercises. NCCIH lists spinal manipulation among the nondrug approaches studied for low-back pain.
Physical therapy centers on movement. A physical therapist reviews your history, checks how you move and writes an exercise program for you. MedlinePlus notes that early back exercises are recommended for sciatica and that bed rest is not.
What a visit involves
- History. We ask when it started, where you feel it, what makes it better or worse, and about your health history and medications.
- Exam. Dr. Klein checks posture, movement and the area involved. X-rays are taken only if they're needed.
- Plan. He explains what he found and what he suggests. You decide how to proceed. If something points to a problem that needs a physician, we'll tell you and suggest you see one.
Mayo Clinic advises against a chiropractic adjustment if you have numbness, tingling or loss of strength in an arm or leg. Tell us about any of these signs before your visit.
Sources (accessed Nov 3, 2026): Mayo Clinic, Chiropractic adjustment
When to get medical care first
MedlinePlus says to contact a provider right away for signs that include:
- unexplained fever with back pain, or back pain after a severe blow or fall
- loss of control of urine or stool
- weakness or numbness in the buttocks, thigh, leg or pelvis
- pain traveling down the leg below the knee, or pain that is worse lying down or wakes you at night
- burning with urination or blood in your urine
Also contact a provider if this episode feels different and worse than before, or has lasted longer than 4 weeks.
Sources (accessed Nov 3, 2026): MedlinePlus, Sciatica · MedlinePlus, Sciatica (article) · NCCIH, Low-Back Pain and Complementary Health Approaches
Visiting us in Midtown
Broadway Chiropractic and Wellness is at 1410 Broadway, New York, NY 10018, at West 39th Street in Midtown Manhattan's Garment District.
- Monday, Wednesday and Friday: 10:00 AM–7:00 PM
- Tuesday and Thursday: 8:00 AM–7:00 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: closed
We work with most insurance plans and help you use your benefits. Call (212) 354-2225 or use the contact form to book.
FAQs
Do I need a referral for physical therapy in New York?
New York lets a physical therapist who has practiced full time for at least three years see you without a referral for up to 10 visits or 30 days, whichever comes first. If you start without a referral, the therapist must tell you in writing that your health plan may not cover physical therapy without one. Not every therapist qualifies, so ask when you book.
Sources (accessed Nov 3, 2026): New York Education Law §6731
Should I rest in bed?
MedlinePlus says bed rest is not recommended for sciatica. Ask us which activities to cut back on for now.
