11 Ways to Deal With Sciatic Nerve Pain During Pregnancy

Sciatic nerve pain, a common form of nerve pain during pregnancy, is caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve. The sciatica nerve branches off the spinal cord into the lower back, runs through the buttocks, and finally down the legs. This large nerve helps the lower back, legs, and feet feel pressure, temperature, and pain. Sciatica pain may arise during pregnancy because the mother’s expanding uterus places pressure on the sciatic nerve. That pressure can cause inflammation, irritation, and pain. Sciatica is most likely to occur later in pregnancy as the baby grows, increasing the weight pressuring the nerve.

Symptoms of Pregnancy Sciatic Nerve Pain

In addition to the expansion of the uterus, other reasons mothers may experience sciatica pain during pregnancy include:

• Weight gain and increased fluid retention
• Growing belly and breasts shift the mother’s center of gravity forward
• The baby’s head is resting directly on the nerve
• A herniated or slipped disc caused by the extra pressure

Tightness in the piriformis muscle, located deep in the buttocks, can also contribute to sciatic nerve pain.

The primary symptom of sciatica is pain that begins at the lower back and radiates down to the legs. Other indications of sciatic nerve pain include:

• Poor bladder control
• Numbness, tingling in the legs
• Burning sensation in lower extremities
• Pain exacerbated by coughing, moving, or sneezing
• Weakness in the feet

As pregnancy progresses, the growing baby and increased weight can exacerbate sciatica symptoms.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should contact your doctor. They can provide safe ways to relieve your pain.

11 Ways to Relieve Pain from Sciatica While Pregnant

Once you’ve contacted your doctor, they will likely recommend some conservative at-home treatments to help deal with the pain. Some at-home, noninvasive treatments a doctor may recommend are:

1. Physical therapy
2. Warm heating pad
3. Over-the-counter medications
4. Messages
5. Going on walks
6. Swimming
7. Yoga
8. Warm baths
9. Being mindful of how you sit and your posture
10. Sleep on the pain-free side of your body
11. Stretching

Some stretches you can try out are:

• Child pose stretch
• Cat-cow stretches
• Seated figure four stretch
• Standing hamstring stretch
• Kneeling lunge
• Pigeon poses
• Bound angle pose
• Modified warrior pose
• Seated piriformis stretch

When performing these stretches, ensure both feet are flat on the floor to maintain proper alignment and stability. In the seated figure four stretch, allow your right knee to relax towards the floor to effectively target the piriformis muscle. Techniques like foam rolling and massage can help soothe tight muscles that contribute to sciatic pain. These exercises are designed to relieve pain and discomfort associated with sciatic nerve issues. Strengthening your abdominal muscles through gentle physical activity can also help alleviate sciatica symptoms.

Before engaging in any stretching or exercise activity, you should speak with your doctor. Your doctor can recommend the best noninvasive at-home treatments that will work best for your pain. They can help you stretch correctly and safely, so you don’t exacerbate your pain more.

Find Sciatica Pain Relief at Orthopedic & Laser Spine Surgery

It can be both painful and scary for women experiencing sciatica pain during pregnancy. Fortunately, most sciatic pain during pregnancy can be treated with at-home remedies and often disappears after childbirth. However, if the pain continues even after trying conservative methods at home, it may be time to consult with a spinal expert. At Orthopedic & Laser Spine Surgery, we understand that every condition and patient is unique and requires personalized care. Our spine surgeons are leaders in their fields dedicated to helping their patients find pain relief. We will tailor your treatment plan to your needs and provide you with award-winning medical service. You can schedule an appointment by filling out our contact form or calling (855) 853-6542.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sciatic Nerve Pain During Pregnancy

What causes sciatic nerve pain during pregnancy?

Sciatic nerve pain during pregnancy is typically caused by the expanding uterus putting pressure on the sciatic nerve, which can lead to radiating pain from the lower back down the left leg or right leg. This is a common condition that many pregnant women experience, especially in the later stages of pregnancy.

How can I relieve sciatica pain in my left leg or right leg while pregnant?

To relieve sciatica pain in either your left or right leg during pregnancy, you can try stretching exercises like the seated piriformis stretch or pigeon pose. Using a foam roller to massage tight muscles and applying heat with a warm heating pad can also help alleviate discomfort. Always consult your doctor before trying any treatments.

Can pregnant women use a foam roller for sciatic nerve pain?

Yes, pregnant women can safely use a foam roller to relieve sciatic nerve pain. Foam rolling helps massage tight muscles, particularly in the lower back and buttocks, which can ease tension on the sciatic nerve. It’s a good idea to speak with your healthcare provider before starting foam rolling exercises to ensure they’re suitable for your condition.

Is radiating pain from the back down the leg a sign of sciatica during pregnancy?

Yes, radiating pain that starts in the lower back and extends down the left leg or right leg is a hallmark sign of sciatica during pregnancy. This pain is caused by pressure on the sciatic nerve, and it can be accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs.

Can sciatica pain during pregnancy affect both the left and right legs?

Sciatica pain can affect either the left leg, the right leg, or both during pregnancy. It depends on how the baby’s position and the expanding uterus are pressuring the sciatic nerve. Proper stretches, like the kneeling lunge and modified warrior pose, can help manage this pain, but consult your doctor for personalized recommendations.