Sciatica, a form of a back pain is one of the most common disorders that affect 70-80% of people at some point in their lives. Sciatica pain often radiates from the low back or buttock and continues along the path of the sciatic nerve – down the back of the thigh and into the lower leg and foot. It comes with in lots of different forms and can be accompanied by upper, lower, or middle back pain.
COMMON CAUSES OF BACK PAIN
There are too many causes for common back pain, which include nerve disorders, muscular tribulations, degenerative disc disease and arthritis etc.
KEEPING WALLET IN BACK POCKET AND BACK PAIN:
Most people have a habit of keeping wallet in their back pockets and sitting on it while driving, working etc. However, this is actually one of the most common reasons for back pain. It can cause problems with the back, muscles, waist, bones, and even the nervous system. When we sit on wallet, we’re forcing the body- especially the spine and pelvis out of the proper posture alignment.
This not only twists the spine but also compresses the sciatic nerve which runs on each side of the spine down through the back of each thigh all the way to the foot. When the sciatic nerve is compressed it causes inflammation, and can result in leg pain and numbness called sciatica. It can make hard to lie down, walk around as well as sit comfortably.
WHAT YOU NEED TO DO?
According to one study, any one who drives more than a half hour sitting on a wallet is a candidate for a Sciatica or back pain. Make sure that next time you sit on your seat, whether you are driving a vehicle, working in your office or attending a class, strictly do not forget to take your wallet out of your back pocket. Also make a habit of keeping your wallet to your front pocket.
STRETCHING TO RESTORE ALIGNMENT AND RELAX TENSE MUSCLES
Stretching releases tension and pressure on the sciatic nerve whilst ensuring the muscle is strong enough reduces the chances of the injury recurring.
PIRIFORMIS STRETCH
- Lay on your back and bend both knees with the feet flat on the floor.
- Cross your left leg over your right so that your left ankle rests on your right knee.
- Use your hands to grab hold of your left knee and pull it gently toward the opposite shoulder. You should feel the stretch in your buttocks and hips.
- Hold for 15 to 30 seconds. Relax, and then repeat with the other leg.
- Repeat this cycle 2 to 4 times.