This is a commonly asked question we receive here at Neurosurgery & spine Consultants. Sciatica is a condition which can seemingly pop up out of nowhere, yet here are often developing stages of the condition itself you may not notice until it becomes an actual painful condition, In this post, we’ll be discussing the various aspects of sciatica and how you can best prevent it from occurring if you haven’t experienced it yet, and also reducing the pain and discomfort if you’re currently going through chronic sciatica pain.
The Short Answer is…Yes
Yes, prolonged sitting can cause sciatica to develop, or even worsen if you’ve had a mild case in the past. Thai is primarily due to the pressure exerted on the sciatic nerve over time which comes with prolonged periods of sitting.
Why Does Prolonged Sitting Make Sciatica Worse?
Prolonged sitting makes sciatica worse due to the fact a good portion of your body eight is now being exerted on your sciatic nerves. These muscles consist of the gluteus muscles which make their way down the leg. This is the reason why if you’re experiencing sciatica, you’ll often feel the pain run down various areas of your legs.
Effects of Prolonged Sitting on Muscles
Prolonged sitting is not good for anyone, especially those with a sciatica issue. Prolonged sitting’s affect on muscles may result in the following:
•Pain
•Discomfort
•Tingling
•Restless Legs
•Muscle Atrophy
•Increase in Sciatica Symptoms
Is Sitting Cross-Legged Bad for Sciatica?
Yes, it is. If you must sit for an extended period of time, it’s important to remember to maintain good sitting posture. Thai means trying to avoid sitting cross-legged as it induces unnecessary pressure on one side of the body, thus resulting in possible worsening of sciatica on said side. Be sure to sit flat-footed with good posture if you must sit for an extended period of time.
How Should You Sit to Help Your Sciatica?
As mentioned above, sitting with good posture, flat-footed, and focusing on evenly distributing your weight throughout your frame may help prevent your sciatica from worsening. Overall, the best thing to do is stand up and walk around every fifteen minutes or so to ensure your body is moving, your blood is circulating properly, and your joints aren’t stiffening.
Let Us at Neurosurgery & Spine Consultants Address Your Sciatica
If you’ve been experiencing sciatica, and you’re seeking out a solution; we may be able to help! Learn more about our process in treating sciatica by contacting us using the form below. We’ll be sure to have you seen by one of our amazing medical specialists and have you on your way to living a pain-free lifestyle once again. We look forward to hearing from you soon!
DISCLAIMER: No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.