Several factors influence the onset of sciatica in pregnancy, including weight gain and postural changes to which the body is subjected throughout the gestation process.
It is a condition that, although it does not necessarily occur in all pregnant women, it is favored by some factors of pregnancy, such as weight gain, change in the body´s center of gravity, distension of the abdominal muscles and the action of hormones such as progesterone, which contributes to the relaxation of the ligaments of certain joints in the body, such as the hip and pelvis.
Pregnancy itself does not cause a higher incidence of sciatica, but rather it is a condition that occurs in people who previously had a back injury.
Simple measures can help prevent early sciatica in pregnancy:
-Practice moderate exercise: Practices such as walking, swimming or yoga contribute to strengthening the abdominal muscles while avoiding a sedentary lifestyle, two factors that help prevent discomfort in the back.
-Control weight in pregnancy: An excessive weight increase causes a greater compression of the sciatic nerve.
- Postural changes: Bad postural habits contribute to the appearance of pain. You must take into account some measures to avoid it: not sitting for long periods of time, do not cross your legs when sitting; stoop always bending the knees; keep your back straight when you sit and walk.
-Mild massage: They help relieve pain and tension in the lower back, especially when accompanied by relaxation and elongation techniques.
-Use appropriate footwear: It is not good that the shoe is completely flat or that it has an excessively high heel. The right measurement is between 3 and 5 cm.
-Put a pillow between your legs when sleeping: To relieve pain if you sleep on your side, or a pillow under your legs if you fall asleep on your back.
-Apply dry heat: When the pain appears, apply heat in the area several times a day. Hot water baths can also be given, as long as the water temperature is not excessively high.
-Avoid self-medication: Never take analgesics or anti-inflammatories without the express authorization of the attending physician.
