Sciatica is a condition that can cause pain in the lower back and legs. Sciatica flare-ups can be triggered by a range of different factors, including:

• Pressure on the sciatic nerve: This is one of the most common causes of sciatica flare-ups. Pressure on the sciatic nerve can be caused by a variety of things, including herniated discs, bone spurs, tumors, pregnancy, and obesity.

• Muscle imbalances in the hips or pelvis: These imbalances can put pressure on the sciatic nerve and lead to pain. Muscle imbalances are often caused by tight muscles in the hips or buttocks, weak muscles in the core or lower back, or injuries to the hip or pelvis area.

• Dietary habits and excessive weight: Excessive weight can exacerbate the pain of sciatica due to the additional pressure that is placed on the spine and back in general. As more weight is gained, the pressure on the sciatic nerve is increased, resulting in more pain as well as long-lasting damage to the sciatic nerve. A healthier diet and management of weight is recommended to limit sciatica flare-ups and pain.

• Wearing tight-fitting clothing or high heels: Tight-fitting clothing can irritate the sciatic nerve and lead to a bout of pain, as can wearing high heels, which shifts your body weight forward and forces your hips to flex forward in order to hold you upright. This causes hip pain in many situations and can again irritate the sciatic nerve, worsening the pain.

• Stress: Stress can lead to muscle tension and inflammation, which can exacerbate sciatica pain.

• Poor posture: Sitting most of the day in a position where the back is not properly supported can put pressure on the lower back and lead to sciatica flare-ups.

• Pregnancy: The weight of the baby can put extra stress on the hip joints and sciatic nerve, leading to sciatica flare-ups.

Being aware of the triggers and causes behind sciatica flare-ups can help you make conscious decisions about what to avoid and how to manage your lifestyle to limit sciatica pain and flare-ups. Seeking treatment is also a good option, especially if your sciatica pain is having quite the adverse effect on your day-to-day life.