Sciatica is a common condition that can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the lower back, buttocks, and legs. It is caused by pressure on the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back through your hips and buttocks and down each leg.
Many people with sciatica experience relief with lifestyle changes and physical therapy. However, one factor that can make sciatica worse is sitting. Sitting puts pressure on the discs in the lower back and can compress the sciatic nerve, leading to increased pain and discomfort.
The best way to prevent sciatica from getting worse is to avoid sitting for long periods of time. When you do need to sit, make sure to use good posture and take regular breaks to move around and stretch. If you have an office job, try to stand up or walk around every 30 minutes or so.
If you have sciatica, it is also important to practice good ergonomics when sitting. Make sure your chair supports your lower back and your feet are flat on the floor. Adjust the seat to the right height so that your hips are level with your knees. You may also want to consider using a lumbar support cushion to help keep your spine in proper alignment.
Finally, if you have sciatica, it’s important to get regular exercise to strengthen the muscles in your back and core. This can help reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve and improve your overall health.
In conclusion, sitting can make sciatica worse if you don’t take the proper precautions. To prevent sciatica from getting worse, it’s important to practice good posture, take regular breaks, adjust your chair to the right height, and use a lumbar support cushion if needed. Regular exercise can also help reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve and improve your overall health.