Sciatica is a prevalent issue but often misunderstood. According to Harvard Health Publishing, it has been estimated that up to 40% of people will suffer from it during their lifetime. Those who suffer from chronic or acute back pain have a higher chance of getting Sciatica. Moreover, the risk increases with age, obesity, smoking, and lack of physical activity. Fortunately, there are easy and effective treatments for Sciatica that can help you manage this condition. Taking proactive steps to reduce flare-ups is the best approach for long-term relief.

What Is Sciatica

Sciatica is a general term used to describe the pain caused by the irritation of the Sciatic Nerve. The severity of this discomfort can vary depending on the underlying cause, and it’s typically associated with a compressed nerve in the lower spine and/or the pelvis.

Sciatica is commonly mistaken for chronic back pain. But it’s more than that. The Sciatic Nerve is the longest and widest nerve in the body. It connects to the lower back, passes through your buttocks, and runs down to just below the knee. This nerve is responsible for sending signals to the muscles in the lower part of the legs. It also gives a feeling to the skin in your foot and most of your calves.

Ways to Prevent Sciatic Pain

Sciatica is not a condition on its own. Instead, it’s a symptom caused by an underlying issue that involves the Sciatic Nerve. Here are some of the prevention strategies for Sciatica:

• Increase Your Exercise Level. Exercise is key to preventing or helping relieve Sciatica. Consider aerobic exercises and core-strengthening exercises. Moreover, strength training is an excellent workout to consider. It involves exercises using free weights, weight machines, or isometric exercises. Incorporating flexibility training into your daily routine can be hugely beneficial too.
   

• Weight Management. Carrying excess weight poses a greater risk of developing Sciatica and can also slow down the healing process. Additional pressure on the spine from being overweight can cause Structural Shifting of your spine as well as herniated discs. Thankfully, making even small diet and lifestyle changes to lose weight can reduce inflammation and lessen pressure on your back.
   

• Avoid Prolonged Sitting. Sitting for long periods can cause excessive stress on the structures, like bones, discs and ligaments, of your lower back. If you must be seated for several hours at work, it’s important to take frequent breaks or use a standing desk. The key is to move around more often than usual so you don’t strain your back.
   

• Maintain Good Posture. Having good posture is essential. You don’t have to resort to old-school techniques such as putting a book on your head for practice. To keep your body straight and healthy, pay attention to how you’re standing or sitting. Avoid slouching by pulling your shoulders back and down. Imagine that the shoulder blades are coming together for a better posture. When working at a computer station, take regular breaks throughout your workday. Don’t forget to adjust the position of your monitor too. This way, you can view the screen without having to flex your neck forward to tilt your head down.

Do you already have Sciatica and need relief from pain? Our experienced chiropractor at the Premier Chiropractic of Tyler can create a treatment plan to reduce nerve irritation. Call our clinic now in Tyler, Texas, at (903) 602-1600 to schedule your consultation.