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Five Common Myths about Sciatica
Sciatica, pain that travels from the lower back or buttock down the leg, is common in Edmonton, from office workers and long-haul drivers to people in construction and the trades. Here are five beliefs we hear often, and what usually helps instead.
Myth 1: If the pain feels better, you’re healed
Pain often settles before strength and mobility return. Keep up the exercises your provider recommends and build activity gradually, even when you feel better, to lower the chance of a flare-up.
Myth 2: Pain medication is enough
Over-the-counter pain relief can help you stay active, but it doesn’t address weakness, stiffness or the habits that strain your back. Combining movement with hands-on care such as physiotherapy or acupuncture works better for many people.
Myth 3: Rest is the best medicine
After the first day or two, gentle movement such as walking usually helps more than bed rest. Long Edmonton winters keep many of us indoors and sitting on soft couches, which can make stiffness worse.
Myth 4: Sciatica only affects older adults
Long hours of sitting, screen work, driving, physical jobs and heavy lifting with poor form can bring on sciatica at any age.
Myth 5: Surgery is the only real solution
Most people with sciatica improve with conservative care. Surgery is considered in specific situations, which your doctor will discuss with you. Waits for specialists in Alberta can be long, so many people start with options such as physiotherapy, guided exercise and acupuncture.
Urgent symptoms
Go to an emergency department if you have numbness in the groin, buttocks or inner thighs, new difficulty controlling your bladder or bowels, or weakness in both legs.