Pain sitting down

[RebeccaWithTheGoodHair]

I have what I think is sciatica - a pain running down the side of my leg from my hip. However I only have it when I stand up from sitting down. Once up and moving it's fine.

It's been going on for a couple of weeks now. During that time I've continued to exercise and walk as normal, I'm pretty active and I don't have any pain at all during exercise.

I wanted to know if this sounds like sciatica and I should just leave it to get better, taking painkillers if it's too bad? Thanks in advance!

[MatildaTheCat]

Sounds obvious but avoid sitting. Lumber discs are especially well known for producing sciatica from compression when sitting. Be warned that if you don't address this now it could get much worse. A bulging disc will be further squashed by sitting causing nerve compression and irritation. It can become extremely severe.

Do you work sitting down? There are lots of ways you can improve workplace practise. Standing more, getting up very regularly to stretch and move and lots more.

I would see a physio or rehab therapist for specific exercises. See your GP if it gets worse or doesn't settle.

[RebeccaWithTheGoodHair]

Thanks for that - I just wanted to know if it was something that would get better on its own - sounds not!

I do work sitting down but I work from home so move around more than I would in an office (as I have the fun of doing the housework as well!).