So, why does everyone have sciatica?

Last month, I was at the Suffolk Show along with some other practitioners, representing our local group, Shiatsu Network. On the stand opposite our marquee, Bob Strong from Town 102FM was getting people to say a few words on air. Never being one to miss out on some free publicity, I went over and had a go, only to be asked “So, why does everyone have sciatica these days?”

In answer, I outlined the causes and the treatments Shiatsu practitioners would use, but it made me realise that I do come across a surprising number of people with ‘sciatica’, and I began to wonder why that should be.

Sciatica is a term used to describe a symptom rather than the cause. Generally, sciatica is pain due to compression of the lumbar, sacral or sciatic nerve, which passes through the buttocks and down the leg. Pain is often therefore not only in the leg, but in the lower back and anywhere in between. Sometimes there can be numbness, loss of strength and ‘pins and needles’ in the leg and feet.

Causes can include muscle spasms trapping the nerves, spinal problems, injury, or even pregnancy pushing internal structures around and compressing the nerves.

According to the NHS, most cases of sciatica have no one cause, but are due to general wear and tear which is why people over forty, and those in physical occupations tend to suffer most often. It may be, in answer to Bob’s question that his particular circle of friends has reached that age where sciatica is more prevalent. Alternatively, it may be that people tend to have more sedentary lives these days, and that poor posture plays a part.

Whatever the case, Shiatsu can help mobilise the areas where the nerves are being trapped, thus relieving the pressure and alleviating the symptoms.