Risk factors
Low back pain and sciatica are prevalent health problems in industrialized countries. We may have a higher risk of sciatica if we meet the following conditions:
- Genetics: Sciatica may have a specific genetic predisposition, primarily due to its degenerative causes. Some people are more susceptible to spinal degeneration than others, which could be running in our veins as a family inheritance.
- Age: Older age is a risk factor. Sciatica can develop at any age, but it is more common as we grow older. At age 40-50 years, the incidence has a peak, especially in women. Some researchers say that sciatica pain is equally common in men and women, but women are more likely to report the problem and look for solutions.
- Overweight and obesity: Being overweight increases the load on the spine and increases the likelihood of several spinal problems, including disc degeneration. Obesity leads to chronic loading of the articulations, and it is associated with an increase of systemic inflammation that favors the development of sciatica pain.
- Extreme height: In some studies, being very tall has been detected as a risk factor for sciatica pain. Other studies find no relationship, but it is a possibility that we may want to keep in mind.
- Cigarette smoking: Tobacco smoke contains hundreds of inflammatory substances and may speed up the development of sciatica pain via biochemical/inflammatory pathways.
- Core instability: Fitness levels are sometimes related to the onset of sciatica pain, and some people encounter significant relief after strengthening their core muscles. Core weakness and instability may contribute to wear and tear of the articulations and the development of sciatica pain.
- Occupational factors: Depending on your job, you could be exposed to significant spinal stress or not. Carrying heavyweights, standing for an extended period, sitting all day long, being exposed to vibration for extended periods, and constantly twisting and bending may increase the chance of experiencing a compression of the sciatic nerve.
- Job dissatisfaction: Not feeling satisfied with one’s job is often seen in patients with sciatica pain. This could become a source of stress and tension that facilitates the development of spinal pain and sciatica.
- Emotional issues: Other emotional issues such as financial stressors and social anxiety may also trigger sciatica pain or lead to more severe pain episodes.