Physiotherapy | Exercises for sciatic pain during pregnancy

Physiotherapy

Many affected persons take a relieving posture because of the complaints. In the case of sciatica pain, those affected bend the painful leg and tilt it slightly outwards. The upper body shifts obliquely to the opposite side.

Although this behavior reduces the problem in the short term, other muscles then tense up and the complaints increase. Therefore, it is important to start with physiotherapy at an early stage in case of sciatic pain. In this therapy, manual techniques are used to release tension and loosen the surrounding muscles.

This stimulates the blood circulation so that inflammatory substances are better removed. In addition, heat can be used to relax the musculature. In addition, the physiotherapist shows the patients exercises to strengthen the gluteal muscles.

The abdominal and spinal muscles should also be trained.If these muscle groups are strengthened, they can withstand loads better and the strain on the lumbar spine and sciatic nerve is relieved. As part of prevention, physiotherapists teach pregnant women back-friendly behavior (e.g. no lifting of heavy loads) and the correct posture. This article might also be of interest to you:

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Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a method of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TMC), which has proven to be helpful in preparing for birth as well as for many pregnancy problems, including sciatica. Acupuncture has a relaxing, cramp- and pain-relieving effect and stimulates blood circulation. For this purpose, the trained therapist or doctor inserts fine needles into appropriate acupuncture points.

This pricking should not be painful, but should evoke warm, tingling or electrifying feelings and relieve the symptoms. The advantage of this treatment method is that no medication is necessary and it is gentle on mother and child. The only possible side effects are slight circulatory problems in the pregnant woman, small bruises or increased child movements in the following hour.

It is important that the therapist is informed about the pregnancy and adapts his treatment accordingly. In principle, acupuncture should not be performed before the 12th week of pregnancy. In the first trimester, the body is still very sensitive to new stimuli, so that acupuncture treatment can cause violent reactions. Acupuncture treatment should also be avoided in the case of a high-risk pregnancy or abnormalities such as coagulation disorders. In the following articles you will find more information on this topic:

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