Common Sciatica Triggers

Common Causes of Sciatic Nerve Pain

Lumbar radiculopathy, more commonly known as sciatica, is a pain that comes from your sciatic nerve. Because this nerve extends from the back of the pelvis down the back of the thighs, sciatic nerve pain tends to radiate in the hips.

For those suffering from sciatica, it is important to know what conditions can trigger unwanted pain affecting your lower back and hips. While these triggers can vary from person to person, the experts at Inspired Spine are here to share some of the most common.

Sitting

For many people, sitting for long periods of time is the number one trigger for their sciatic nerve pain. This is because sitting, especially with objects in your pockets, can irritate the piriformis. This muscle sits on top of the sciatic nerve, which can cause added pressure and result in unwanted aches and pains.

Wearing Ill-Fitting Clothing

For many people living with sciatica, wearing restrictive pans and undergarments can trigger a flare-up. This is due to the pressure being placed on your sciatic nerve.

Stress

While minor stressors in life can be relatively harmless, persistent exposure to your body’s stress response can be detrimental to your health. Like most forms of chronic pain, chronic stress is also a common trigger for sciatica.

When you’re stressed, your muscles tense up. While this can help to protect you in some situations, this can result in aches and pains radiating in the hips and legs.

Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery in Minnesota

When it comes to aches and pains, and discomfort that affects your back can be more than just an annoyance — it can negatively affect your quality of life and your independence. At Inspired Spine, our experienced and knowledgeable spinal surgeons are dedicated to relieving your chronic back pain with the least invasive treatment possible.

To schedule a free consultation with one of our spine surgeons, call (952) 225-5266 today.