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Sciatica in pregnancy

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Sciatica in pregnancy
Sciatica in pregnancy manifests itself through pain that spreads towards the bum and leg area

Check with your GP to make sure that your pregnancy is the only cause of your sciatica.

Massages can be beneficial in treating sciatica in pregnancy. They won't get rid of sciatica but they will relax your muscles.

Your GP might prescribe some sessions with a physiotherapist and give further advice on how to get relief at home.

Exercises are also recommended to prevent or relieve back pain problems, Here are some exercises to get you started:

Exercises to relieve sciatica in pregnancy

Lie flat on your back, breathe out as you tilt your pelvis up and breathe in as you release.

Lie flat on your back, breathe out as you tilt your pelvis up and breathe in as you release.

Bend your thigh up towards your pelvis as you breathe out. Hold for 30 seconds then change legs, without lifting your head or shoulders.

Curl both your legs up towards your chest, keeping your knees together. Hold the position.

Curl both your legs up towards your chest, keeping your knees together. Hold the position.

Move onto all fours, with your thighs bent at a 90° angle to your pelvis and your arms in line with your shoulders. Lower your head and relax your neck while raising the middle of your back towards the ceiling. Hold for 5 seconds then release slowly.

Move onto all fours, with your thighs bent at a 90° angle to your pelvis and your arms in line with your shoulders. Lower your head and relax your neck while raising the middle of your back towards the ceiling. Hold for 5 seconds then release slowly.

Practical advice to ease pain caused by sciatica in pregnancy

- Don't arch your back too much: avoid sticking your belly out or hollowing your back.
- When you're cooking or doing the dishes, make sure that the worktop is at a convenient height. If necessary, use a step stool.

Also in Parenting:
> Pregnancy massage and aromatherapy
> Exercise and pregnancy
> Travelling during pregnancy

Parenting Editor
01/11/2011 00:15:00

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