Preventing Sciatica: Tips to Help You
By Sara Butler
Sciatic pain can be some of the worst pain you experience in your life. That's because your sciatic nerve, which also happens to be the largest in your body, covers a lot of areas. When something goes wrong with it, then the pain can spread from your lower back, down your leg, all the way to your toes. And some activities can make it even worse, such as bending over or even sneezing or coughing.
The good news is that if your sciatic nerve is causing you trouble, there are some things you can do to help and maybe even a few things you can do to prevent it from getting worse. Here are some tips to help from the chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic.
What Causes Sciatic Pain?
Pain in the sciatic nerve, often referred to as sciatica, can be caused by several different things. It might be an issue with the ligaments in your lower back that are putting pressure on the nerve or a bulging spinal disc.
Symptoms of sciatica include:
- Pain in the legs or buttocks that is made worse when you sit
- Prickling or burning sensation in the leg
- Constant pain on one side
- Numbness, weakness, or problems moving the foot or leg
- Pain that shoots down the leg, making it challenging to stand
Tips for Prevention
If you are experiencing sciatic nerve pain, then it's a good idea to head to the chiropractor so they can help determine the underlying cause, then treat it. Exercise, stretching, and hands-on chiropractic adjustments have been shown to help reduce sciatic pain.
If you want to help prevent sciatic pain from occurring, then there are some simple things you can do, such as:
- Reducing pressure on your lower back - You can achieve this by making sure to have good posture when standing and sitting. You should also strive not to sit as much during the day. If you have a job that requires you to sit, then make sure to take frequent breaks to move and stretch.
- Achieve and maintain a healthy weight - Exercise and a proper diet can help you to reach and maintain a healthy body weight. Doing so will help to take some of the pressure extra pounds can bring with them on your lower back.
- Lift wisely - When lifting heavy objects, make sure to use proper lifting techniques. Never use your back to lift, only your legs!
You don't have to deal with sciatic pain alone. Come into The Joint for help today.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Aurora, Colo.