Pregnancy is a transformative and often challenging time for women, with several physical and hormonal changes occurring. A common issue that many expectant mothers can face is sciatic nerve pain, also called sciatica. The sciatic nerve is the longest in the human body and runs from the lower back, down through the buttocks and into each leg. Sciatica during pregnancy can be particularly challenging due to the discomfort it causes and the limited options for pain relief. Sciatic nerve pain during pregnancy affects approximately 50% to 80% of pregnant women at some point during their pregnancy journey. This condition typically occurs during the second or third trimester and is caused by the baby’s weight and position putting additional pressure on the sciatic nerve.

Symptoms of sciatic nerve pain during pregnancy

Expectant mothers experiencing sciatica may have a variety of symptoms including:

• Sharp or shooting pain — A sharp or shooting pain can travel from your lower back or buttocks down the leg. One side is usually affected.
• Tingling and numbness — Intermittent or persistent sensations of tingling or numbness in the leg or foot may be experienced.
• Muscle weakness — Weakness in the affected leg can make it challenging for you to stand, walk or keep your balance.
• Worsening pain with movement — Pain can grow worse with certain movements. These movements can include standing up, walking or shifting positions.

Treatment options for sciatic nerve pain during pregnancy

Managing sciatic nerve pain during pregnancy can involve a combination of approaches. These approaches are intended to alleviate discomfort and enhance mobility:

• Prenatal yoga and exercises — Gentle prenatal yoga and specific exercises can help strengthen the back and pelvic muscles. These muscles provide support and can help reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve.
• Physical therapy — Physical therapy can offer targeted exercises and stretches to alleviate sciatica. Manual therapy techniques can also help to address muscle tension and promote proper alignment.
• Heat and cold therapy — Applying heating pads or cold packs to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief.
• Pregnancy support belts — Supportive belts that are designed for pregnant women can help provide abdominal and lower back support. This support can help relieve the strain on the sciatic nerve.
• Posture awareness — Maintaining good posture while sitting, standing and sleeping can all help alleviate pressure on the sciatic nerve. Using pillows for support during sleep can be beneficial.

Is physical therapy during pregnancy safe?

Physical therapy is a safe and effective option for helping to manage sciatica during pregnancy. Physical therapists can use tailored exercises and techniques specifically designed for expectant mothers. Physical therapy exercises and techniques that can be used safely for sciatic nerve pain during pregnancy may include:

• Prenatal exercises — Physical therapists can design gentle, prenatal-specific exercises. These exercises focus on helping to strengthen the muscles supporting the pelvis and spine. These exercises can help improve flexibility, promote proper posture, and reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve. Prenatal exercises may include pelvic tilts, cat-cow stretches and gentle yoga poses adapted specifically for pregnant women.
• Stretching techniques — Specific stretching exercises can help alleviate muscle tightness and reduce compression on the sciatic nerve. Stretching the hamstring, hip and lower back muscles can help boost flexibility and alleviate sciatica symptoms. Your physical therapist can guide you through safe and effective stretching routines.
• Pelvic floor exercises — Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles is essential for expectant mothers. Pelvic floor exercises, or Kegel exercises, can help improve pelvic stability and support the lower back. This stability and support can help reduce sciatic nerve pain. Your physical therapist can teach you proper techniques to perform these exercises effectively.
• Aquatic therapy — Aquatic therapy can provide gentle resistance and support and can be ideal for pregnant women. Water therapy exercises can help reduce sciatic pain while allowing for comfortable movement. Water buoyancy helps relieve pressure on joints and can also promote relaxation, making it a safe choice during pregnancy.
• Heat and cold therapy — Your physical therapist might recommend applying a heating pad or cold packs to the affected area. These can help alleviate pain and help reduce inflammation. Heat therapy can help relax muscles and improve circulation. Cold therapy can help numb the area and reduce swelling.
• Postural guidance — Maintaining proper posture is vital to helping reduce sciatic nerve pain. Your physical therapist can help educate you about proper positions for sitting, standing and sleeping. These proper positions can help alleviate pressure on the lower back and sciatic nerve. They may also suggest you use supportive pillows or cushions to help you maintain proper alignment while resting.
• Manual therapy — Gentle manual therapy techniques like soft tissue manipulation and joint mobilization can help alleviate muscle tension and improve joint mobility. When performed by experienced physical therapists familiar with prenatal care, these techniques are safe during pregnancy.
• Education — Physical therapists can advise on proper lifting techniques, footwear and supportive belts. Learning how to move and do daily activities in ways that minimize strain can help reduce sciatic nerve pain.

Expectant mothers should consult a certified prenatal physical therapist with experience treating pregnant patients. These physical therapists can help create a customized plan to address your needs and concerns. They can help you have a safe and comfortable pregnancy while helping to manage your sciatic nerve pain.

Find relief from sciatic nerve pain at Lattimore Physical Therapy

Choosing Lattimore Physical Therapy means choosing a compassionate and experienced partner in your pregnancy. We understand the unique challenges that pregnant women face. Our team is experienced and dedicated to providing safe and effective treatments tailored to each patient’s individual needs. We offer a variety of beneficial therapies and exercises that are safe for treating sciatic nerve pain during pregnancy.

Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.