11 Ways to Deal With Sciatica Pain During Pregnancy

Sciatic nerve pain 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 Sciatica During Pregnancy

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

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

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 Find Sciatica Pain Relief 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

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.