Nine Common Causes of Sciatic Nerve Pain

People with sciatica feel pain shooting down the back of one or both legs. It can make it hard to sit, stand or think about much of anything else! Sciatica is more common than you might realize, with studies estimating that 40% of the population will experience it in their lifetime. 

In nearly every case, there is something putting pressure on the sciatic nerve which causes the shooting pain. 

Here are nine of the leading causes and risk factors for sciatic nerve pain:

1. Disc Issues
2. Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
3. Injury
4. Pregnancy
5. Obesity & Lack of Exercise
6. Job Demands
7. Poor Ergonomics
8. Sleeping on the Wrong Mattress
9. Spinal Tumors

1. Spinal Disc Issues 

The most common cause of sciatica nerve pain is related to a spinal disc problem such as a herniated disc or bulging disc, bone spurs, and degenerative disc disease. When discs break down, they an bulge outward and put pressure on the spine and nerve endings, which leads to pain. A herniated disc actually leaks the disc fluid which is known to cause quite a bit of pain, including sciatic pain. Discs often wear out due to aging, but can also break down due to intense physical activity such as heavy weightlifting and contact sports. 

2. Lumbar Spinal Stenosis

More common in older adults, lumbar (lower back) spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the passageways in the lower spine, making it difficult for nerves to pass. This causes nerve compression and often results in pain in the back and legs. Standing and walking may become painful. There is not too much that can be done to reverse spinal stenosis. Talk to your chiropractor or other healthcare provider to discuss pain relief options, including sciatic pain.

3. Past Injuries Can Cause Sciatic Pain

Impact injuries from automobile accidents, falls, and sports injuries often damage the bones, discs and nerves in and around the spine. Ever9 y injury is unique, talk to your chiropractor about your history of injuries when talking about the sciatica pain you may be experiencing.

4. Pregnancy and Sciatica

Carrying a child increases the pressure on the spine and the muscles of the lower back. Light exercise to help strengthen the stabilizer muscles in the back and legs can help reduce the risk of sciatic nerve pain during pregnancy. If you’re experiencing it, talk to the 

5. Excess Body Weight

Excess body weight increases the burden on your spine. It can also contribute to poor posture, and can gradually alter the curvature of the spine, increasing the risk of sciatica. Obesity is also a major risk factor for diabetes, which is commonly associated with sciatic nerve damage. A healthy diet combined with regular exercise can help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of sciatic nerve pain.

6. Job Demands

If your job requires heavy lifting, bending, and/or twisting, it may contribute to back problems, especially if you’re not using proper technique. Be careful when lifting or carrying heavy objects, Lift primarily with your legs instead of your back. When appropriate, lift as a team or use equipment to reduce the burden on your spine. Make sure to take breaks and stretch periodically to decompress the spine and prevent muscle tightness.

7. Poor Posture Puts Pressure on the Sciatic Nerve

If your job doesn’t require lifting and bending, but rather, requires sitting for long periods of time, you could be at risk for pressure on your spine that causes sciatic pain. Make sure your chair, desk, and computer are set at the appropriate heights to keep your back and neck upright. Avoid slouching or craning your neck. A well-cushioned chair with lumbar support can help you sit with proper posture. Keep your feet on the floor as much as possible, and take a break every hour.

8. Sleeping on the Wrong Mattress Can Cause Back Pain

The quality of your sleep affects just about every aspect of your health. Spending the night on a mattress that is too soft or too firm can cause changes in your spine, including pinched nerves and abnormal curvature. If you wake up often with neck or back pain, it may be time for a new mattress. Beds with adjustable firmness and materials like memory foam make it easy to find your ideal setup so that you don’t have back pain when you wake up.

9. Rare Spinal Tumors

While rare, spinal tumors that form in the lower back can compress the nerves and increase the risk of sciatica. Most spinal tumors can be removed if caught early. Most health care professionals will do x-rays or other imaging to see if they find the cause of your back pain before recommending a treatment. This is when most abnormal bumps or growths are found. 

Fortunately, professional chiropractic care can help you manage your sciatic.


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