b'Specialist treatment for Sciatica is available at the| HEALTH | bodytonic clinicWINTER &SCIATICASuffer from low back pain? You are not alone.by james gillI t is estimated that 60% to 80% of the general population2. Slips and falls in the cold - you are more at risk of will experience an episode of low back pain in his or herslipping and falling during the winter, especially when its icy lifetime. Low back pain is one of the top reasons why anunderfoot. Proper footwear and taking care when you are individual may decide to come and visit an osteopath orwalking will help you to maintain your balance and avoid physical therapist. unnecessary injuries. If balance is a problem or if you are Most low back pain has an acute onset and can lastcurrently injured then dont be afraid to take a walking aid anywhere from a couple of days to a few weeks. In most casesout with you (a walking stick or a ski pole).it is mechanical in nature, meaning that there is a disruption3. Lifting in the cold - during the season of goodwill be to the normal way the; bones, muscles or joints function andcareful while shopping, carrying and lifting all those heavy move together.and awkward sized gifts. Same goes for those travelling While low back pain can have many causes, when it isabroad with heavy luggage this winter to see family during experienced with tingling, numbness or weakness in thethe festive period or even to get out of the cold and into the thigh, leg and/or feet, it is usually an indication that theresun. Make sure you are lifting properly and using a carry case is compression of the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is theto ease the load off your back.longest nerve in the body and runs from the lower back and buttocks all the way down to the feet. Without the sciaticWant more information about sciatica? Read our sciatica nerve we wouldnt be able to move or feel sensation in ourblog post here bodytonicclinic.co.uk/sciatica-sciatic-legs or feet. pain/or book in for a free 15 minute consultation with The main symptoms of sciatica are pain, tingling, numbnessone of our osteopaths to find out how we can help you.and or weakness in the low back and buttock. Depending on the severity there may be also symptoms into the legs and feet. Laughing, sneezing and coughing can make sciatic pain worse along with sitting or walking for a prolonged period oftime.Osteopaths see an increase in low back pain and sciatic complaints over the winter. So heres 3 top tips to look out forBODYTONIC CLINICthis winter when it comes to your back pain and sciatica: 10-11 Dock Offices1. Working out in the cold - if you work outside in theSurrey Quays Roadcold conditions makes sure you wrap up warm to avoidSE16 2XUinjuries such as muscular strains or irritation to underlyingand other clinics in Stratford and Wappingjoint stiffness or arthritis. If you are out in the garden be awaret: 0203 606 0490of the hard ground conditions especially if you are digging. w: bodytonicclinic.co.ukTHE RIVER MAGAZINE|Winter 201933'