As the cold weather sets in, individuals suffering from sciatica, or lumbar radiculopathy, often experience an increase in pain and discomfort. Sciatica, a condition caused by the compression or irritation of the spinal nerve roots in the lower back, manifests as pain that can radiate from the lower back through the buttocks and down one leg. The symptoms can include numbness, tingling, and difficulty moving the affected leg. During winter, the colder temperatures, changes in activity levels, and muscle stiffness can exacerbate these symptoms.

Why Winter Makes Sciatica Worse

1. Cold Weather Increases Muscle Tension: In cold weather, your muscles naturally contract, which can lead to stiffness. This added tension in the muscles surrounding the spine can put more pressure on the sciatic nerve, aggravating the pain.
2. Reduced Activity Levels: Many people reduce their physical activity during winter months to avoid the cold or due to slippery conditions. Lack of movement can weaken the muscles supporting the spine, increasing the risk of further compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve.
3. Changes in Posture: People often hunch or alter their posture in response to the cold, trying to stay warmer. This can lead to additional strain on the lower back and nerves, triggering or worsening sciatica pain.
4. Winter Injuries: Slippery sidewalks or indoor falls are common during the winter months, leading to accidental injuries that can worsen an already sensitive nerve.

Recognizing Sciatica Symptoms

Sciatica pain typically affects only one side of the body, radiating from the lower back through the buttock and into the leg. The pain can be sharp and shooting or dull and aching, and it often intensifies when sitting or standing for long periods. Neurological symptoms such as numbness, weakness, or a “pins and needles” sensation in the leg can also occur.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to get a proper diagnosis. Doctors often perform a physical exam to evaluate symptoms and may use tests such as the straight leg raise test or imaging (like MRI or CT scans) to identify the underlying cause of sciatica, such as a herniated disc.

Sciatica Treatment Options

For those struggling with sciatica, especially in the winter months when symptoms may worsen, timely and effective treatment is essential. While most cases of sciatica caused by lumbar disc herniation resolve on their own over a few weeks to months, treatment can help relieve pain and prevent further complications. Here are some common approaches to managing sciatica:

• Conservative Therapies: During the first 2 to 4 weeks of sciatica, conservative treatments are typically recommended. These may include physical therapy, massage therapy, heat therapy, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications to manage pain and inflammation.
• Epidural Steroid Injections: If conservative measures do not provide relief, lumbar interlaminar or transforaminal epidural steroid injections may be used. These nerve blocks, which combine local anesthetics and steroids, can effectively reduce inflammation and provide significant relief for many patients.
• Medications: In some cases, medications such as neuroleptics (Lyrica, Neurontin) and antidepressants (Cymbalta) may be prescribed to treat the neuropathic pain associated with sciatica.
• Surgical Options: If conservative treatments and injections fail to resolve symptoms, surgery may be necessary. A common surgical procedure for unilateral sciatica is a discectomy, where a portion of the herniated disc is removed to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve.

Managing Sciatica During Winter

To minimize the impact of sciatica in the colder months, consider the following strategies:

• Stay Active: Gentle stretching and low-impact exercises, such as walking or swimming, can help keep muscles flexible and reduce tension on the sciatic nerve.
• Layer Up and Stay Warm: Keep your back and legs warm during the winter months, as cold temperatures can increase muscle stiffness.
• Be Careful with Winter Activities: Take extra care when walking on icy surfaces or shoveling snow to prevent falls that could worsen sciatica symptoms.

Conclusion

Winter can make sciatica symptoms more challenging to manage, but with the right care and treatment, you don’t have to suffer. Whether through conservative therapies, injections, medications, or even surgery, there are effective solutions to help manage sciatica pain. If you’re experiencing sciatica or lumbar radiculopathy, it’s essential to seek professional evaluation and treatment.

Don’t let winter worsen your sciatica—contact Dr. Moradian and Dr. Vartanian at Interventional Spine Care and Orthopedic Regenerative Experts (iSCORE) for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan. Let us help you get back on your feet, pain-free.

To schedule an appointment, call us today at (818) 338-6860 or (626) 460-1096. Don’t let sciatica keep you from enjoying the winter season!