The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in your body, and it starts in the lower back and then splits into two – running down both of your legs all the way down to the heels. Sciatica pain can therefore travel from your lower back down one or both of your legs, usually affecting only one leg.
Sciatica pain is often caused in older people by spinal stenosis or a degenerated disc, but it can be caused in younger people by a herniated disc. As the disc material presses against the sciatic nerve in the lower spine, you are bound to feel sciatica pain that ranges from mild to excruciating. Even if you are in your 20s, you can still have sciatica.
There are a number of work-related factors that can put you at risk of developing sciatica. Let’s talk about some of the main work-related reasons behind this cause of leg pain and back pain, and where you can go for an efficient medical evaluation and treatment that works to quell your pain.
What Can Cause Sciatica Pain in My Back and Leg?
Some of the activities you perform at work may induce sciatica pain, including the following:
Heavy Lifting
If your job entails lifting or manipulating heavy objects, you are at risk for sciatica. This is because lifting heavy loads and repeated bending and twisting motions can put immense pressure on your back, which can lead to a herniated disc that causes pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Movers, transportation workers, warehouse and stockroom workers, postal workers, delivery drivers, and even first responders and emergency personnel are at an increased risk for sciatica pain. Talk to your doctor about how best to avoid the aggravating motions that are causing your pain, because you should be able to use alternative movements.
Using Vibrating Tools (Drills, Jackhammers, etc.)
When your whole body is subjected to the harsh vibration of power tools, your sciatic nerve can become irritated. This can have a compounded effect if you are overweight. Construction workers, utility workers, mechanics, repairmen, and machine operators who use powerful vibrating tools to carry out their professional duties are susceptible to sciatica pain for this reason.
Sedentary Office Work
Even sitting in your office chair the whole day can cause sciatica pain. This can be even worse if your office chair was not designed for optimum ergonomic support of your posture. Your vertebral discs can become compressed after sitting for too long at a time, which is why it’s important to take breaks and stretch your back and legs.
Treatment for Workers’ Compensation Injuries
Sciatica is a very common injury in the workforce, and it contributes to high health costs and productivity costs. If you are experiencing sciatica pain due to your job, Core Medical Center can help you reclaim your health. We treat workers’ compensation patients in Blue Springs and the greater Kansas City metro area, and we focus on chiropractic and orthopedic care.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with one of our outstanding healthcare providers, contact our friendly staff today by calling us at (816) 427-0201 or by filling out our online contact form now. We look forward to seeing you!
