SCIATICA

Sciatica refers to the painful condition that results from irritation of the sciatic nerve which starts in the lower back and runs down the back of the leg. This irritation most commonly results from a herniated disc or muscle spasm pressing on the nerve. Besides a rounded lower back, crossing the same leg too often can cause the piriformis muscle in the buttocks to spasm - pinching the sciatic nerve and causing pain. The 3 F's can easily be applied to lower back pain and Sciatica but medical attention should always be sought if pain persists.

Sciatica is usually felt as a sharp pain, deep inside your buttocks or as a sharp shooting pain down the back or side of your leg. Often it is described as a feeling of hot electricity running down the leg.

Continually crossing one leg can cause the piriformis muscle to be over stretched. If this happens it can recoil into spasm and impinge the sciatic nerve that runs under it. Sitting with your lower back rounded can also cause pressure on the SI joint, which is where your spine meets your hip bones. This can cause that joint to spread or shift which, in turn, can cause the piriformis muscle to spasm in an attempt to protect or realign the SI joint. The spasming piriformis will then impinge the sciatic nerve, sending shooting pain down the back of the leg. This is often referred to as Piriformis Syndrome.

To fix these conditions, try not to cross your legs.  If you must cross your legs, refrain from doing so for long periods of time and switch the leg you're crossing periodically.  A lumbar support can help but you need to make sure you're sitting against it so it can support you. The Office Effect Lower Body Exercise Series will strengthen the lower back muscles as well as the piriformis muscles, allowing you to relieve sciatic pain.