Have you ever felt a sharp, shooting pain that travels from your lower back down to your leg? You might be dealing with sciatica. It’s more common than you think, especially in city life with desk-bound jobs, and it can range from mildly annoying to downright debilitating. But the real challenge? Understanding what’s causing it and knowing when to seek help.
At Orthopaedic Spine Specialist clinic, patients often arrive after weeks or even months of trying to “tough it out.” What they discover is that earlier attention could have made recovery smoother and faster. Here’s what your spine specialist wants you to know about the top causes of sciatica.
1. Herniated Or Slipped Discs
This is the leading cause of sciatica. The spine’s discs act as cushions between the vertebrae. When one slips out of place or ruptures, it can press on the sciatic nerve, triggering pain, numbness, or tingling down the leg.
This condition often stems from improper posture, heavy lifting, or age-related wear and tear. Prompt treatment can help reduce nerve inflammation and prevent long-term damage.
2. Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is a condition where the spaces in the spine narrow, putting pressure on the nerves, including the sciatic nerve. It’s something that tends to affect older adults more frequently and can lead to pain, especially when walking or standing for extended periods. A spine specialist can use advanced imaging techniques and physical exams to confirm the diagnosis and suggest either non-surgical or surgical treatments based on how severe the condition is.
3. Degenerative Disc Disease
As we age, our spinal discs can lose their flexibility and ability to cushion the vertebrae, leading to inflammation or nerve compression that mimics sciatica symptoms. Addressing this issue early on with physiotherapy and lifestyle changes can help alleviate pain and enhance mobility without resorting to invasive procedures.
4. Piriformis Syndrome
Piriformis syndrome, while less common, happens when the piriformis muscle in the buttocks irritates the sciatic nerve. This condition is often associated with prolonged sitting or poor exercise form. Targeted stretching and muscle therapy, as recommended by a spine clinic, can be effective in managing this type of sciatica.
5. Poor Posture and Sedentary Lifestyle
Sitting for long periods, especially without proper back support, can put a strain on the lower back and irritate the sciatic nerve. When you add a lack of regular movement into the mix, it’s easy to see how sciatica can develop over time. Incorporating regular mobility exercises, checking your posture, and making ergonomic adjustments at work can significantly help in preventing recurring flare-ups.
Know When to Seek Help
While sciatica can sometimes resolve on its own, if your symptoms last more than a week, worsen, or start to impact your mobility, it’s a good idea to consult a spine specialist.
At Orthopedic Spine Specialist clinic, we prioritise early diagnosis, non-invasive solutions, and personalised care plans tailored to your specific needs.
Don’t let sciatica hold you back. Schedule a consultation and take the first step toward relief today!
