Do you have an increased risk for sciatica?

Low back pain with pain down one leg can be very unpleasant and also interfere with your daily activities.

It’s logical to think that heavy lifting on a regular basis is the reason why we develop this kind of problem.

While excessive stress to the low back can cause problems, it may not be the only thing increasing your risk.

The findings of this research is interesting since most people don’t think of this as a possible reason why they may develop sciatica.

The study was done in Finland and included 8,028 men and women 30 years old or older (Leino-Arjas P, et al. 2008).

The results showed that men with cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the upper one third were significantly associated with sciatica when compared with men in the lowest one third level.

Women treated for high cholesterol also showed an association with sciatica.

Why would high cholesterol and triglyceride levels be associated with sciatica?

High cholesterol and triglycerides lead to clogged up blood vessels which results in less blood supply to the low back.

Even if the inter-vertebral discs in the low back don’t have direct blood supply, the discs get their nutrient supply indirectly from the blood vessels by diffusion.

Less blood supply to the low back will therefore lead to less nutrient supply to the discs, and with time that will increase the risk for disc degeneration and the symptoms of sciatica.

By eating food that supports a healthy cardiovascular system and adapt a healthy lifestyle, you will not only reduce your risk for cardiovascular disease, but also end up with a healthier back.