After you first notice your sciatica, one or two days of bed rest may provide some pain relief. After that period, however, excessive bed rest is not recommended. In fact, inactivity may increase your inflammation and worsen your symptoms.
Sciatica
Sciatica is when you have pain, weakness or tingling that radiates down your leg. It is usually caused by disc problems in your spinal column but can also be caused by other problems.
The pain involved in sciatica can vary from a mild tingling to severe, disabling pain. It usually occurs on one side.
Because sciatica is a symptom, the cause of the problem needs to be discovered and treated.
If you have severe sciatica, you may want to consult a neurologist, a doctor who specializes in the nervous system.
Recently Answered
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Sigma Nursing answeredIn most cases, sciatica is caused by a nerve root being compressed by a herniated disk located in your lower back. In rare circumstances, the herniated disk may be compressing nerves that affect your control over bladder or bowel function. When this occurs, you may also notice a tingling sensation or numbness around your genital area or groin. This is a medical emergency, so see a doctor immediately.
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National Academy of Sports Medicine answeredSee All 3 AnswersSciatic nerve pain can be caused by several factors including a herniated disk or piriformis syndrome. Piriformis syndrome occurs when the piriformis muscle (small, outer-hip muscle) becomes tight and puts pressure on the sciatic nerve. Some general exercises that may help sciatica include static stretching your hip flexors and piriformis and low-intensity strengthening exercises for your glutes (such as a floor bridge or ball bridge) and deep abdominal muscles (supine marching).
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Medical Center of Trinity answeredExercising with sciatica can be beneficial, but may pose certain risks, especially for patients who are experiencing weakness.
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Sigma Nursing answered
Sciatica is a symptom that usually occurs due to nerve root compression in your lower spine. The compressed nerve root can affect parts of your body in different ways. It can cause you to feel pain that radiates throughout your sciatic nerve, from your lower back down the back of your leg. Your affected leg may also feel weak, tingly, or numb.
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Intermountain Healthcare answeredSciatica can be very frustrating. Core strengthening is a key to help stabilize the spine and decrease the compression on your herniated discs. We recommend starting with "isometric" exercises, such as planks, and gentle stretching. With time, medications, and proper strengthening most of these cases resolve.