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Sciatica Nerve Pain In Pregnancy: Expert Explains The Impact And How To Manage It

Have you ever experienced severe pain during pregnancy running from your lower back through your hips and buttocks? You may experience a sharp discomfort that is frequently likened to an electric shock. This pain is a condition which is characterised by pain along the sciatic nerve and is usually felt on one side of the body. If not managed properly, it can lead to the development of health conditions, such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disc disease. We spoke to our expert Dr Krishnaveni Nayini, Senior Consultant, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad, who explained the impact of sciatica nerve pain and how to manage it.

"Sciatic nerve pain during pregnancy is believed to be caused by the developing baby pressing on the nerve. The sciatic nerve runs from the uterus to the legs and the pain associated with it is a periodic severe pain that occurs throughout the legs", informed Dr Nayini.

"The sciatic nerve is the largest in the body, providing sensory and motor function to the lower extremities. This nerve provides sensation to the back of the thigh, lower leg, and sole", added Dr Nayini. According to BMJ Publishing Group, The majority of individuals with acute sciatica have a good prognosis, however after a year or two, 20-30% still experience issues. A physical examination and a history are used to make the diagnosis.

Also Read: Second Pregnancy: Expert Explains How It Differs From The First One

Tips To Deal With Sciatica Pain

You might have pain in one area of your body and tingling in another. This pain ranges from mild to excruciating. Dr Nayini listed some management measures for sciatica pain that you should follow:

The most simple way to alleviate sciatic nerve pain during pregnancy is by lying on the opposite side of the pain to reduce pressure on the nerve.

Another thing that you should keep in mind is avoiding heavy lifting and minimising standing for long periods.

If you feel pressure while standing, try elevating one foot and resting it on a surface. According to the Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care (IFMPC), stretching, range of motion, and attention to good posture are essential. 

Swimming may also ease discomfort. The low-impact nature of swimming can help strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce inflammation in the affected area. 

Applying heat or cold to the affected region may provide you with relief. Heat eases tense muscles, which are frequently made worse by bearing excess weight. On the other hand, applying a cold pack on your rear pelvis and lower back can also be beneficial.

Certain over-the-counter (OTC) drugs may be helpful if the pain is severe. Your healthcare provider may recommend paracetamol to relieve the pain.

When To Visit A Doctor

Dr Nayini highlighted, "If the patient experiences severe pain, they will be referred to an orthopaedic and a physiotherapist. If the pain persists even after physiotherapy, an MRI scan will be conducted to check for nerve compression. Moreover, if the problem persists even after delivery, steroid injections may be considered for treatment. In cases where the nerve compression is significant, a small surgery may be needed to reduce the compression."

[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert if you notice any symptoms to manage your condition effectively.]

Disclaimer

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