Low back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide, affecting 80% of adults at some point in their lives. Sciatica — radiating pain, numbness, or tingling down the leg — is often caused by nerve compression in the lumbar spine. Dr. Cayer identifies the structural and neurological root cause rather than simply masking symptoms with medication.
Common Symptoms
Understanding the Anatomy
The lumbar spine (L1-L5) and the sciatic nerve — the longest nerve in the body. When a disc bulges or vertebrae misalign, pressure on the nerve causes the radiating pain known as sciatica.
How We Treat It
Spinal Decompression
Gently stretches the spine to relieve disc pressure and free compressed nerves.
Chiropractic Adjustments
Restores proper vertebral alignment using gentle, instrument-based techniques.
Trigger Point Neutralization
Releases tight lumbar and gluteal muscles contributing to pain.
Cold Laser Therapy
Reduces inflammation in the affected spinal segments to accelerate healing.
Patient Success Story
Patricia H.
52 years old · Office Manager
The Problem
Patricia first noticed a dull ache in her lower back after standing for long periods at work. Over months, the pain intensified and began shooting down her right leg — making it impossible to sit through a dinner or drive more than 10 minutes. She tried physical therapy and pain medication, but relief was temporary. An MRI revealed a mild disc bulge at L5-S1, and her primary care doctor suggested she 'learn to live with it.'
The Outcome
After her first spinal decompression session with Dr. Cayer, Patricia noticed the leg pain was less intense. By visit 6, she could sit through an entire movie. After 12 visits over 6 weeks, her sciatica was completely gone. She now comes in monthly for maintenance and hasn't had a recurrence in over 3 years.
Before & After: Patient Progress
Photos shared with written patient consent. Names are initials only to protect privacy.
P.H.
50s · 12 visits · 6 weeks
Before
Week 1 — Severe lumbar pain, unable to stand straight
After
Week 8 — Full upright posture, pain-free
Sciatica completely resolved. Returned to full-time work without pain.
T.R.
40s · 24 visits · 10 weeks
Before
Week 1 — Seated posture severely compromised
After
Week 10 — Normal seated posture restored
MRI-confirmed disc herniation reduced. Avoided surgery.
Drag the divider left and right to compare before and after results. Results are real patients treated at Dr. Cayer's Newtown, CT office.
What Our Patients Say
“I had severe low back pain and could hardly walk. My husband had to walk me into the office. After a few days I began to feel better, and within a week I was feeling much better — to the point that I went on our snowmobiling trip and felt great! Now I feel back to normal.”
“I suffered from sciatica for over two years. The shooting pain down my leg made it impossible to sit through a meal or drive anywhere. Dr. Cayer corrected the problem in just a handful of visits. I wish I hadn't waited so long to come in.”
“Since I started chiropractic care I have noticed a great change in my lower back and stomach. I have not had any severe digestive problems since I started. I can also now turn my head to see the blind spot in my car. My 5-year-old son loves chiropractic too!”
“I had an MRI-confirmed L4-L5 disc herniation. My orthopedic surgeon said I'd need a discectomy. I decided to try Dr. Cayer first. After 8 weeks of spinal decompression and adjustments, my follow-up MRI showed significant reduction in the herniation. No surgery needed.”
“After having my second child, my back was a mess. I couldn't pick up my baby without wincing. Dr. Cayer was incredibly gentle and understanding, and had me feeling like myself again within 3 weeks. He's our whole family's chiropractor now.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Choose Dr. Cayer for Low Back Pain & Sciatica
Gentle, instrument-based adjustments — no twisting or cracking
Spinal decompression therapy available on-site
Addresses the root cause, not just symptoms
Experience with post-surgical and complex cases