The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body. It provides motor and sensory functions to the lower part of the body. Sciatic nerve pain is pain resulting from the irritation or inflammation  of the sciatic nerves. This pain is usually felt from the lower back to behind the thigh and radiating down below the knees.
 

 

What causes sciatic nerve pain during pregnancy ?

 
The sciatic nerve runs from the uterus to the legs. During pregnancy, the pressure of the developing baby on the nerves causes sciatic nerve pain.

What are the symptoms of sciatic nerve pain during pregnancy ?

 
Symptoms of sciatic nerve pain during pregnancy include :

• numbness and pins and needles in the lower back or leg and possibly the affected foot
• pain in the lower back or back of the pelvis that may extend into the affected foot
• shooting or burning sensation in the leg and affected foot

How can sciatic nerve pain be managed during pregnancy ?

 
The best remedy for this pain is to lie on your side  opposite where the pain is located. This may help relieve the pressure on the nerve.

Don’t lift or push anything that is heavy.

If standing causes pain, elevate your foot and rest it on something.

You can also try swimming to ease discomfort.

Apply cold and heat compressions to area of discomfort.

Chiropractic care can also be useful when dealing with sciatic nerve pain.

Your health care provider may recommend taking acetaminophen to relieve pain.

Contact your health care provider if pain  increases in intensity and frequency.
 
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