If you have ever felt that burning, intense pain from sciatica, you know just how uncomfortable the condition can be. When you have sciatica, it can be mild and not affect your daily life too much or it can be debilitating and make it difficult to walk or function normally.

Most cases of sciatica will resolve on their own over time, even though the condition can be painful until it is resolved. Our team at AFC Urgent Care Chapman Highway shares all the details about sciatica below.

How Do You Get Sciatica?

Sciatica is a condition that appears when your sciatic nerve is compressed in some way. In addition to causing radiating pain, it can also cause numbness in the area. The pain typically radiates from the lower back down the leg, and normally only affects one side of the body. It can burn or feel like an electric shock when you move a certain way.

Your sciatic nerve may be compressed by a herniated disk or by an overgrowth of a bone spur on your vertebrae. Sometimes compression can occur from a tumor, but that is a rarer occurrence. Some lifestyle choices and conditions make you more susceptible for developing sciatica.

Risk Factors for Sciatica

• Older age
• Obesity
• Prolonged sitting
• Diabetes

Can I Avoid Getting Sciatica?

Compressed nerves can come from a variety of factors, so it is important to take care of your body as best you can! Exercise regularly, use proper posture when you sit, take frequent standing or walking breaks and maintain a healthy weight.

Even though it is a painful condition, most of the time the pain will subside within a week or two. If it is a more serious case, you may need to see a medical provider to better understand your specific condition and seek any treatment options.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Sciatica

• You have sudden and severe pain in your low back
• The pain follows a violent injury, like a car accident
• You can no longer control your bladder or bowels
• The pain will not go away after a week or more

If you are struggling with symptoms of sciatica or they have persisted for a week or longer, come see us at AFC Urgent Care Chapman Highway!