Risk factors For Sciatica

Sciatica is a common condition affecting 10 to 40 percent of the population. Although it is more common in older people, it can happen to younger people if they have certain risk factors for sciatica. Sciatica can be described as a burning or shooting pain that goes from the back down one or both legs. The pain may be sudden or come on gradually. There may also be a tingling sensation, numbness, and muscle weakness. Dr. Dunlap and our team at InSight Health & Wellness Chiropractic Center in Philadelphia would like to take a look at the risk factors for sciatica.

Spine Problems

If you have a herniated or slipped disc, spinal stenosis, or a bone spur, then you are more likely to develop sciatica. The factor that all of these conditions have in common is that they cause part of the spine to press on the sciatic nerve.

Being Overweight

Those extra pounds put added pressure on your nerves, causing painful flare-ups. They also create extra pressure on your spine, which can press on your nerves. Even losing a little weight may reduce your flare-ups. Losing that weight also helps many other parts of your body, not just your back and nerves.

Being Sedentary

If you spend most of your time sitting, you are at risk for sciatica, along with many other serious health conditions. If you sit at a desk all day, stand up for at least a few minutes every hour.

Smoking

Quitting smoking will not entirely eliminate your risk of getting sciatica if you are overweight and sedentary. However, it does help to reduce flare-ups. Just how smoking increases your chance of developing sciatica is not known. It is known that smoking reduces circulation by causing the blood vessels to narrow. Smoking also increases inflammation in the body overall, which can create pressure on the nerves.

Diabetes

Diabetics often suffer from high blood sugar. This causes nerve damage, which causes both sciatica and a condition called diabetic neuropathy. Many diabetics are also overweight, which compounds their risk of developing sciatica.

Contact Us for Sciatica Treatment in Philadelphia, PA

If you are suffering from sciatica and live in the Philadelphia area, contact InSight Health & Wellness Chiropractic Center to make an appointment with Dr. Dunlap. Call our team today at (215) 564-6680 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form.