The sciatic nerve commences in the lower aspect of the spine and travels down to the buttocks and back of the legs. Sciatica or sciatic nerve pain manifests as severe shooting pain, along with tingling numbness along the course of the nerve.
- The sciatic nerve travels beneath the uterus to the legs.The chief causative factor for sciatic nerve pain is pressure on the nerve due to the developing baby.
- The added weight on the body along with fluid retention is an important factor for compression of the sciatic nerve.
- The ballooning uterus puts a lot of pressure on the lower aspect of the spine where the nerve is situated.
- The blooming belly causes the center of gravity to shift and stretches the lordotic curve of the spine which in turn makes the muscles of the buttocks and pelvis to tighten which pinches the sciatic nerve.
- Herniated discs, muscle tension, bone fractures, uterine fibroids, endometriosis and retroverted uterus are some of the other possible causes.
How To Get Rid Of Sciatic Nerve Pain When Pregnant?
- The most useful remedy to manage sciatica is to lie on that side which isn’t painful.This helps allay the pressure on the nerve.
- Minimize standing or sitting for prolonged intervals of time.
- Do not lift heavy objects.
- Swimming is known to ease the discomfort to some extent; the buoyancy of the water takes the pressure off the spine.
- Applying heat or cold to the affected area allays the pain as well.
- Have warm showers.
- Stretching exercises provide immense respite. Most people, who have nerve impingement, suffer from some degree of muscular tension, and this can be assuaged by stretching these tense muscles. Talk to a physical therapist as well as a licensed Yoga practitioner for help.
- Essential oils are known to be decidedly beneficial too. Aroma oils such as ginger, nutmeg and clove proffer immense relief; nonetheless, talk to your health care provider and a licensed aromatherapist before using the essential oils.
- Massaging the affected area offers relief as well. A lot of women opt for pre-natal massages; you can schedule massage sessions with your licensed masseuse.
- To make sure you are comfortable when you lie down or sleep, use a firm mattress which will give you lots of back support. Also, place a pillow between the legs so that the pelvis is better aligned and this will take the pressure off the sciatic nerve.
- Talk to your OB/GYN if certain exercises may help strengthen the core and reduce the pain. A physiotherapist will give help as well.
- Furthermore, try to gain weight slowly and steadily; when you pile on too many pounds suddenly, there’s too much pressure on the spine and consequently the sciatic nerve gets impinged.
- Homeopathy is a safe way of decreasing the sciatic pain during pregnancy. Several homeopathy drugs help deal with the pain and discomfort associated with sciatica. Nonetheless, you must discuss with a registered homeopath for the best medication as well as the recommended dosage for you.
- In case of severe pain, talk to your health care provider, he may recommend an analgesic to assuage the pain. However, avoid self medication; always talk to your OB/GYN. It is very vital that you contact your OB/GYN if the pain becomes continuous or increases in intensity and / or frequency.