Sciatica is common in pregnancy, as the weight of the belly overloads the spine and the intervertebral disc, which can compress the sciatic nerve. Back pain can be severe only in the back, can get worse by sitting or standing in the same position for a long time, and tends to get worse with domestic activities.
The pain can be located only in the bottom of the back, manifesting itself in the form of weight or tightness, but it can also radiate to the legs. The characteristic of the pain may also change, and the woman may experience a stinging or burning sensation, which may radiate to her leg.
When these symptoms are present, the obstetrician must be informed so that he can indicate the need for medication, but normally non-medication strategies achieve excellent results.
Strategies to combat sciatica in pregnancy
To relieve sciatica in pregnancy it may be recommended:
- Physiotherapy: devices such as TENS and ultrasound, manual and manipulative techniques, use of the Kinesio tape, application of heat bags, which reduce pain and discomfort, improving blood circulation, fighting muscle spasm, can be used. In periods outside the sciatica crisis, exercises can be done to strengthen the back muscles; Massage: a relaxing massage helps to reduce the tension in the back and gluteal muscles, which may be worsening the compression of the sciatic nerve, however one should not over-massage the lumbar region as it may promote uterine contraction. So, to be safer it is recommended to perform a massage for pregnant women; Warm compress on the back for 20-30 minutes: relaxes the muscles, decreasing muscle spasm and increasing blood circulation, relieving pain and discomfort; Acupuncture: rebalances the accumulated energies and can help relieve symptoms of sciatica, especially when used in conjunction with other types of treatments; Stretching: should be done, preferably twice a day, focusing on the muscles of the back, buttocks and legs, which may decrease nerve compression.
Emergency care should be sought in case of pain that only gets worse, even when following the guidelines above, and that persists even during and after rest.
Check out what else you can do to fight back pain during pregnancy in this video:
How to prevent sciatica in pregnancy
To avoid inflammation and sciatic nerve pain during pregnancy, it is important to:
- Practice physical activity regularly before and during pregnancy. Good options are practicing dance, Yoga, Clinical Pilates or Hydrotherapy, for example; avoiding not putting on more than 10 kg in pregnancy is also important, because the more weight you gain, the greater the chance of sciatic nerve compression and inflammation. pregnant brace to help improve posture and prevent spine overload. Keep your spine upright when sitting, walking, standing, and especially when lifting weights from the floor.
If you start to experience any pain or discomfort in your lumbar spine you should take the opportunity to rest, staying in a comfortable position for some time. However, absolute rest is not indicated and can worsen the situation. During sleep, it is recommended to use a pillow between your legs when lying on your side, or below your knees when lying on your back. See what is the best position to sleep during pregnancy.
