Do you have Lower Back Pain or Sciatica?
You’re not alone! Lower back pain and sciatica are common, with 1 in 6 adults affected. As osteopaths, we regularly treat people suffering with these problems at our clinic. Luckily, both sciatica and lower back pain usually resolve quite quickly.
Do you have Lower Back Pain or Sciatica?
You’re not alone! Lower back pain and sciatica are common, with 1 in 6 adults affected. As osteopaths, we regularly treat people suffering with these problems at our clinic. Luckily, both sciatica and lower back pain usually resolve quite quickly.
A common cause of Lower Back Pain and Sciatica
We all like a nice fat wallet however, for some of us it could be causing some trouble. An often-overlooked cause of lower back, bum and sciatic pain is sitting on your wallet!
Why? Lots of us keep our wallets in our back pockets and over time this can affect our posture. When we sit, our wallet lifts one side of our pelvis. If we wedge one side of the pelvis up with our wallet, this creates an uneven foundation. The rest of the body must move to compensate. Although this may not be a major issue as a one off, when amplified over hours, months and years it adds up. Longer-term, it can even lead to repetitive strain and muscle imbalances. This is because tilting your pelvis up on one side makes it impossible to sit properly and maintain the natural curves in the back.
Resolving the issue…
The sciatic nerve runs from the lower back through the muscles in the bum and down into your legs. Sitting with pressure against the nerve and muscles can irritate them, leading to pain in the lower back, hips, and even the leg.
The simple trick of taking your wallet out as you sit or drive can really make a difference! If the habit is too hard to break, try putting something in the other pocket to even yourself out.
Ultimately – it’s great to be balanced! This simple step improves your posture and reduces the risk of suffering with lower back pain and sciatica.
Remember – please don’t ignore niggling aches and pains. If you experience lower back pain or think that you may have sciatica, let us know.
We can usually see you and alleviate your pain quickly.
Andrew MacMillan
Registered Osteopath, Shefford Osteopathic Clinic
Andrew is a registered osteopath with a passion for health and well-being. He has current recognised qualifications in nutrition for sport, as well as for weight management and exercise prescription. Andrew has also worked as a personal trainer, helping people achieve their body and fitness goals.