Sciatica
Causes of Sciatica
Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve becomes compressed or pinched – generally as a result of a herniated disc, bone spur, or other reasons for spinal stenosis. In some, rarer instances, however, the sciatic nerve can also be compressed by the growth of a tumor or even as a byproduct of a condition like diabetes.
Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve becomes compressed or pinched – generally as a result of a herniated disc, bone spur, or other reasons for spinal stenosis. In some, rarer instances, however, the sciatic nerve can also be compressed by the growth of a tumor or even as a byproduct of a condition like diabetes.
In addition, there are certain risk factors that have been known to cause sciatica, these include:
- Age – As we age, and the spine experiences normal wear and tear, discs begin to degenerate, herniations occur, and bone spurs develop.
- Weight Issues – Being overweight or obese increases the strain put on the spine and spinal discs, triggering sciatica.
- Lifestyle – In the event you work a job that requires you to lift heavy objects, move your back in awkward ways, or sit for long periods at a time – whether it be while driving or at a desk, this is known to cause sciatica to develop. Those who live a sedentary lifestyle are far more likely to develop sciatica.
- Diabetes – Excess sugar intake and your body’s utilization of that sugar can increase your risk of nerve damage.
