I'm Still Struggling with Sciatica from Pregnancy — Can You Help?

Motherhood is undoubtedly one of the most rewarding experiences in life. The joy and fulfillment of welcoming a new life into the world are beyond words. But for some, the journey also includes unexpected discomforts like sciatica pain.

Unlike what most people might think, sciatica is more than just back pain; it's a prolonged discomfort that can travel from your lower back, through your hips and buttocks, down to your legs. 

The irritation or compression of your sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in your body, causes the condition. This nerve originates in the lower part of your spinal cord, and when aggravated, the result can be debilitating pain, numbness, or even weakness in the affected areas.

At NeuroSpine Center in Tampa, Florida, Dr. Phillip Henkin and our team specialize in helping you resolve this lingering discomfort effectively. 

This blog covers what you need to know about postpregnancy sciatica and how to manage it.

Why does postpregnancy sciatica happen?

Postpregnancy sciatica occurs due to the changes your body goes through during the nine months of your pregnancy. Hormonal fluctuations, weight gain, and even your baby’s position can all contribute to the development of this condition. 

Your pelvic bones widen to prepare for childbirth, which can also pressure your sciatic nerve. Not to forget, the delivery itself can be traumatic to your lower body, leading to lingering issues like sciatica.

What are the symptoms?

The primary symptom of sciatica is sharp, shooting pain. It's often one-sided, typically originates in your lower back or hip, and travels down your leg.

Another symptom to be cautious of is a tingling or numbing sensation that follows the same path as the pain.

You might sometimes experience muscle weakness, making moving the affected leg or foot difficult.

Treatment options for sciatica pain

Our first line of treatment for sciatica pain is typically conservative methods such as:

• Physical therapy: Exercise strengthens your spinal and core muscles, reducing nerve compression
• Medications: Anti-inflammatory medications and muscle relaxants 
• Steroid injections: to reduce inflammation directly at the nerve root

If conservative treatments fail, we consider surgical options such as disc removal (discectomy) and spinal decompression (laminotomy). We’re known for minimally invasive surgeries that free up the pinched nerve and provide lasting relief.

Self-care tips

Tips for taking care of your sciatica pain at home include:

• Heat/cold therapy: for immediate relief from your symptoms
• Stretching: provides long-term relief by reducing nerve compression
• Lifestyle adjustments: a balanced diet and proper hydration can indirectly impact your condition by aiding in weight management and reducing inflammation

Being a mom is already a full-time job without the added stress of lingering sciatica pain. If you're dealing with this condition of postpregnancy, know that help is available. 

NeuroSpine Center offers compassionate care to treat the root cause of your discomfort. With a range of treatment options, from conservative therapies to minimally invasive surgeries, our experts will tailor a treatment plan specifically for you.

Don't hesitate to reach out and schedule a consultation online today or call 813-534-4945.