Ever sat in LA traffic so long that your back starts to ache, and then one leg suddenly goes numb or painful? That could be sciatica, and it’s more common than you might think. Here’s what locals need to know.
How Common Is Sciatica?
National numbers show that 10–40% of people experience sciatica at some point in their lives. That puts the risk at nearly 1 in 3 Americans at minimum NCBIAlmaden Family Chiropractic.
Every year, about 1–5% of people experience sciatica, with new cases numbering in the millions NCBIAlmaden Family Chiropractic.
Among those with lower back pain, 5–10% will develop sciatica Almaden Family ChiropracticPMC.
While there aren’t LA-specific statistics, it’s fair to say that, with the city’s long commutes and active lifestyle, residents likely fall within, or even above these ranges.
Why Sciatica Is So Common Here in LA
Sitting in Traffic – Staying in one position for hours on the 405 or 105 compresses spinal discs, often aggravating the sciatic nerve.
Car Accidents – Even minor fender-benders can trigger sciatica by jolting and misaligning spinal structures.
Active Lifestyle – LA surfers, runners, hikers, and gym-goers put repetitive stress on their lower back, herniated discs and tight muscles are common triggers.
Desk + Screen Time – Office jobs are on the rise in entertainment, tech, and creative industries. Poor posture exacerbates low back pressure and nerve irritation.
What Sciatica Feels Like
Sharp or burning pain that shoots from your lower back or butt down your leg
Tingling, numbness, or pins-and-needles sensations
Leg weakness or heaviness
Symptoms often worsen after long periods of sitting like during an LA commute or a flight out of LAX
Most Common Causes
Herniated or bulging discs — responsible for up to 90% of sciatica cases Southern California Hip Institute
Lumbar spinal stenosis, bone spurs, degenerative changes, or piriformis syndrome — a muscle pressing on the sciatic nerve Southern California Hip InstitutePubMed
Why Early, Natural Care Matters
Around 80–90% of sciatica cases improve without surgery, especially with treatments like chiropractic care, rest, and gentle rehab Almaden Family Chiropractic.
Half of cases resolve within 4–6 weeks; if symptoms persist, professional intervention reassures long-term recovery Almaden Family Chiropractic.
Without treatment, up to 40% of sciatica sufferers may experience recurrent pain Full Range Spine & Ortho.
How Re-LAX Chiropractic + Wellness Helps LA Locals with Sciatica
At Re-LAX Chiropractic + Wellness, Dr. Christina Yang and the team focus on helping patients recover naturally, without relying on pain medications or invasive procedures.
Here’s how sciatica care looks in our clinic:
Spinal Adjustments — Realign the spine to take pressure off the sciatic nerve.
Spinal Decompression — Gently creates space between vertebrae to relieve nerve irritation.
Soft Tissue Therapy — Loosens tight muscles (like the piriformis and hamstrings) that often contribute to sciatic pain.
Posture & Stretch Coaching — Practical, easy-to-follow tips and stretches for LA residents dealing with long commutes, desk work, or active lifestyles.
Active Recovery Plan — A personalized program to keep you moving comfortably, whether that means getting back to the gym, hiking trails, or simply enjoying daily life without pain.
The Bottom Line
Sciatica isn’t rare, it affects a big chunk of the population, and especially in LA, where lifestyle factors add pressure to the spine. But the good news? Most cases resolve with early, gentle, and effective care.
| Metric | Estimated Rate |
|---|---|
| Lifetime risk | 10–40% of people will experience sciatica |
| Annual new cases | 1–5% of people across the U.S. |
| Lower back pain → sciatica | 5–10% of cases develop sciatic symptoms |
| Non-surgical recovery rate | 80–90% improve with conservative care |
| 4–6 week recovery rate | ~50% resolve within this period |
| Recurrence potential | Up to 40% may get flare-ups without care |
Ready to Find Lasting Relief?
If you’re feeling that tell-tale leg pain or nerve irritation after sitting in traffic or training hard, you’re not alone. Let Re-LAX Chiropractic + Wellness help you recover safely and naturally.
📍 Visit Us:
Re-LAX Chiropractic + Wellness
8929 South Sepulveda Blvd., Suite 100
Los Angeles, CA 90045