Sciatica in Pregnancy

Definition:
It is the pain that comes from the Sciatic nerve in the lower back that branches to the hips, buttocks and each leg.

The pain can be mild or severe.
Sometimes it feels like shooting, numbness, or burning.

It often goes away with time

Causes:
1. Weight gain.
2. Change in center of gravity.
3. Hormonal changes.

In some pregnancies, the pain will reduce when the fetus starts to grow and move away from the nerve.

Pregnancy, bad posture or prolonged sitting may lead to sciatica, so it is better to change positions or stay active while pregnant.

Risk factors:
1. Preexisting back pain.
2. Back pain in a previous pregnancy.
3. Multiparity.
4. High body mass index.

Symptoms:
1. Lower back pain.
2. Pain on the buttocks, to the back of the thigh, reaching to the leg, on one side of the body.
3. Numbness, tingling or weakness of the affected leg.

Relieving pain:
1. After consulting a specialist, stretching exercises for back and legs muscles. Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W5kcxccYHBA

2. Acupuncture.
3. Massages.
4. Physical therapy with a certified physical therapist.
5. Swimming.
6. Ask your doctor for suitable painkillers.
7. heat or ice packs on the painful area for 20 minutes few time a day.
8. keep good posture while sitting. Using support pillow behind may help.
9. Bend your knees and keep your back straight when lifting objects.
10. Avoid lifting heavy things.
11. Avoid staying still for long periods of time. try to stay active as possible.
12. Avoid standing for long time.
13. Sleep on the side with the painful side up, with a pillow between knees.
14. Warm baths.

Usually, you will start feel better within 10 days to two weeks.