Sciatica, or pain that travels along the path of the sciatic nerve, can range from a minor annoyance to a very severe pain. The sciatic nerve has its origins in the lower back, and travels through the hip area, buttocks, and down the back each leg (though sciatic nerve pain usually only affects one side of the body).

Sciatica can occur when, for one reason or another, the sciatic nerve becomes compressed or pinched. This typically occurs as a result of a herniated disc or a bone spur.

Much research has been released lately about the risks associated with sitting too much. Sitting for long periods of time has been linked with a number of health concerns, including elevated blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, and excess body fat. Prolonged sitting can also contribute to sciatic pain for a number of reasons.

Sitting in a chair shifts more weight onto the discs of the spine in the lower back, which can aggravate the sciatic nerve. Sitting for extended periods of time also encourages poor posture in the neck, which in turn affects the spine lower down. Carrying the head off-center or off-level can create imbalances that can travel down the length of the spine, causing pain and discomfort.

To learn more about the connection between head and neck injuries and low back pain, download our complimentary e-book by clicking the image below.

While it may seem counterintuitive or strange to look at the neck as the source of sciatic pain, often the primary issue can be found there. The spine is all connected through a network of joints, muscles, ligaments, and other soft tissues.

When one of the top two vertebrae in the neck shift out of alignment, it causes many compensations and abnormal muscle tension throughout the body. So, while the symptoms you may be feeling are in the lower back, the origin of the problem may very well be in the neck.

In his Fair Oaks Upper Cervical Chiropractic practice, Dr. Brett Gottlieb performs a thorough analysis to determine if a misalignment in the upper part of the neck is, in fact, to blame for your sciatica pain. Once this misalignment is corrected, and the body is allowed to regain its normal posture and function, pain can be relieved naturally.

To schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Gottlieb, call 916-655-0569, or just click the button below.

If you are outside of the local area, you can find an Upper Cervical Doctor near you at www.uppercervicalawareness.com.