Sciatica Sufferers: Have you Fell to These Common Myths?

Those with sciatica know just how much the condition affects everyday life. From sitting and standing, to lying down, to just walking from place to place, your lower back can flare up at any minute. Which is why folks look to every possible solution to heal it sooner rather than later. But did you know there are several common myths surrounding the condition? New patients often look online to find advice, while long-term sciatica victims might find old wives tales – anything new fangled that might help ease their pain.

No matter your situation, however, avoid these common myths. And, to get the facts straight, talk to your doctor about sciatica and how you can best treat your back pain any time of day.

The myths:

Sciatica is Only Caused by Certain Conditions

While this can be true, it’s not the only cause of the sickness. There can be any number of muscle, spinal, even organ-based conditions that can lead to sciatica. Unfortunately, this is why it’s so hard to treat. As a secondary side effect, first treating the original cause is the only way to stay pain free on a long-term basis. 

Leg Pain without Back Pain Can’t be Sciatica

Depending on how the nerve is affected, sciatica can manifest in the legs rather than the back (or the rear). Though this is rare, it still takes place in various sciatica patients. However, it’s important to have your leg pain examined by a doctor as sciatica can be mistaken for a leg injury and vice versa. 

Sciatica Patients Should Rest

While it might be the first thought that comes to mind, especially on a day when pain is worse than others, this generally isn’t the case. Stretching and moving can work to reduce pain over time, even if just by strengthening or loosening one’s muscles. 

Surgery is the Only Treatment Option

Wrong. There are multiple ways to address sciatica rather than going under the knife. Physical therapy, lifestyle changes, exercise regimens, and more can all work to reduce sciatica symptoms.

To better understand your sciatica, talk with your doctor today.