Why Fall is Sneaky on Sciatica

Sciatica—a sharp, burning pain that radiates down the leg—often flares up in the fall, catching people off guard. While cooler weather may seem unrelated to nerve pain, subtle seasonal changes can make a big difference in your spine and muscles.

First, fall yard work is a major trigger. Raking, bending, and twisting while lifting heavy leaf bags or using a leaf blower places stress on the lower back. If spinal joints or discs are already irritated, these movements can inflame the sciatic nerve. A study published in Spine (2010) found that mechanical loading of the lumbar spine, especially during repetitive flexion and rotation, increases the risk of disc herniation—a common cause of sciatica.

Second, as temperatures drop, people tend to become less active. Long hours spent sitting—watching football, working indoors, or riding in the car—tighten the hip flexors and hamstrings, which can further irritate the sciatic nerve. Decreased activity also leads to joint stiffness and muscle deconditioning.

Third, cold weather itself may influence pain sensitivity. Research in Pain Reports suggests that cooler environments can heighten the body’s pain response, especially in cases of nerve-related pain like sciatica.

The good news? Chiropractic care can help reduce inflammation, restore spinal alignment, and ease pressure on the sciatic nerve. A randomized trial in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that spinal adjustments significantly improved pain and disability in sciatica patients compared to standard medical care.

If your leg pain is creeping in this fall, don’t brush it off. Early chiropractic treatment may prevent a small flare-up from turning into a chronic condition. And remember—warming up before chores, stretching after, and staying mobile can help you stay one step ahead of sciatica this season.