How Weight Affects Sciatica

Excess body weight can put added pressure on the spine and lower back which can increase strain on the sciatic nerve. Here’s how excess weight can affect your sciatica:

  • Impact on Body Mechanics: Carrying extra weight can alter your posture and balance. Having poor posture can lead to misalignments in the spine which could aggravate the pain. 
  • Pressure on the Spine and Nerves: Carrying extra weight can create additional strain on the lumbar spine. This additional strain could compress the discs in your spine potentially leading to a herniated disc. 
  • Inflammation and Chronic Pain: Research has shown that there is a connection between extra weight and increased inflammation levels in the body. Chronic inflammation can lead to musculoskeletal pain, including sciatica.