Team,
Up to 40% of people will experience sciatica at some point in their lifetime. Here are some quick facts about it to help you be able to identify it and feel empowered to relieve pain through movement.
What is sciatica?
The sciatic nerve can become irritated for a number of reasons. The most common symptom when it does become irritated is sciatica, which is sciatic nerve pain. This is most commonly a sharp, shooting pain that runs along the back of your leg.
If you suspect that you may be experiencing sciatica, we recommend checking in with a healthcare provider.
What is the sciatic nerve?
The sciatic nerve is the largest (usually larger than pinky-width!) and longest nerve in the human body. It starts in your lower back region and runs along the back of your legs. It’s how your brain communicates with many of the muscles and the skin of your legs.
How do I relieve sciatica?
Our brain is hardwired to protect our body from any potential threats — including pain. So, it makes sense that our first instinct would be to stop moving our body, because it may cause pain. But, one of the best ways to relieve sciatica is actually through moving our body.
Not sure where to start? The Start Moving Sciatica & Back Pain Relief program is designed to help you start, and stay, moving safely while experiencing sciatica or back pain.