Who Is Prone to Sciatica?

Who Is at the Highest Risk for Sciatica?

Sciatica is a common condition that affects many people, especially those who are older, overweight, or have a sedentary lifestyle. But what exactly is sciatica, and who is more likely to develop it? This article will answer these questions and provide some tips on how to prevent and treat sciatica.

Risk Factors

Sciatica is a term that describes the pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that radiates from the lower back to the buttocks and legs. It is caused by the compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, which is the largest and longest nerve in the body. The sciatic nerve runs from the lower spine, through the pelvis, and down the back of each leg. 

Anyone can develop sciatica, but some people are more prone to it than others. Some of the risk factors for sciatica are:

• Age – Age plays a significant role in the likelihood of developing sciatica. With age, the spine undergoes natural wear and tear. Conditions such as a herniated or bulging disc and spinal stenosis become more prevalent, increasing the risk of sciatic nerve compression. Individuals in their 30s and 40s might start experiencing symptoms, with the risk rising as they enter their 50s and beyond.
• Occupational hazards – Certain occupations are more prone to sciatica due to the nature of their tasks. Jobs requiring prolonged periods of sitting or heavy lifting put individuals at higher risk. Truck drivers, office workers, and manual laborers often find themselves grappling with sciatic pain. Understanding proper ergonomics and incorporating regular breaks and exercises can mitigate these risks.
• Weight and lifestyle factors – Excess weight can contribute to sciatica by putting pressure on the spine. Obesity increases the likelihood of developing conditions such as herniated discs, exacerbating sciatic nerve compression. Engaging in a sedentary lifestyle further compounds these issues. Regular exercise, especially activities that strengthen the core and lower back, can be instrumental in preventing sciatica.
• Pregnancy – Pregnancy brings about various changes in a woman’s body, and some of these changes can contribute to sciatica. As the uterus expands, it may exert pressure on the sciatic nerve. Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can also loosen the ligaments, potentially leading to increased nerve compression. Fortunately, for many women, sciatica related to pregnancy tends to resolve after childbirth.
• Genetic predisposition – Genetics can also play a role in determining who is prone to sciatica. Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to conditions such as herniated discs or spinal abnormalities, increasing their susceptibility to sciatic nerve issues. While genetics cannot be altered, awareness of familial tendencies can prompt proactive measures to minimize risk.
• Diabetes – Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way the body uses blood sugar, which can damage the nerves and cause neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy can affect the sciatic nerve and cause sciatica-like symptoms, such as pain, numbness, or tingling in the leg. 

How to Prevent and Treat Sciatica

The good news is that sciatica can be prevented and treated with some simple measures. Here are some tips to help you avoid and treat sciatica:

• Exercise regularly – Physical activity can strengthen the core muscles, increase flexibility, reduce inflammation, and prevent stiffness. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise three times a week. Some of the best exercises for sciatica are walking, swimming, cycling, yoga, and Pilates.
• Stretch daily – Stretching can relieve tension in the muscles and nerves and increase range of motion. Focus on stretching your lower back, hips, hamstrings, glutes, and piriformis muscles. Hold each stretch for at least 15 seconds and repeat several times a day.
• Maintain good posture – Poor posture can put unnecessary strain on the spine and discs and aggravate sciatica. Try to keep your spine aligned when you sit, stand, or sleep. Use ergonomic furniture and accessories that support your back and neck. Avoid slouching or hunching over your computer or phone.
• Apply heat or ice – Heat or ice can ease pain and inflammation in the lower back and legs. Use a heating pad or a warm bath for 15 to 20 minutes several times a day. Alternatively, use an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel for 10 to 15 minutes every few hours. You can also alternate between heat and ice for optimal results.
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers – Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen can reduce pain and swelling in the tissues surrounding the sciatic nerve. However, be careful not to exceed the recommended dosage or use them for more than 10 days without consulting your doctor.

Seeking Professional Guidance

While lifestyle modifications can be impactful, individuals experiencing persistent or severe sciatic pain should seek professional medical advice. A healthcare provider can conduct a thorough examination, diagnose the root cause, and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. Early intervention is key to preventing the progression to the last stages of sciatica, when chronic pain and potential complications may arise.

Sciatica is a condition that can affect individuals from all walks of life. Age, occupation, lifestyle, and genetic factors all contribute to the likelihood of developing sciatic nerve issues. By understanding these risk factors and taking proactive measures, individuals can reduce their susceptibility to sciatica and enjoy a healthier, pain-free life. 

Patients who have had discectomies or less invasive microdiscectomies for herniated discs may experience sciatica if their discs reherniate, which often occurs if there is a large hole in the outer ring of the disc after surgery. Fortunately, there is a new treatment shown to reduce the risk of reherniation by closing the hole in the disc after a discectomy.This treatment is done immediately following the discectomy—during the same operation—and does not require any additional incisions or time in the hospital.Barricaid was proven 95 percent effective in a study of over 500 patients, meaning 95 percent of patients did not experience a reoperation due to reherniation in the two-year study time frame.

To learn more about the Barricaid treatment, ask your doctor or contact us at 844-705-1081.

For full benefit/risk information, please visit: https://www.barricaid.com/instructions.