Sciatica Stretches to Relieve Pain

Just as there is more than one way to cook an egg, there is more than one way to treat sciatica. Most people begin with over-the-counter medications to help reduce pain.

If those don’t work, other options are available, such as:

•    Massage therapy and physical therapy, which involve stretching and strengthening muscles.
•    More invasive options like injections or surgery.

Stretches to Relieve Pain

While you’re seeking treatment or in between chiropractic adjustments, relieve pain that starts in your lower back and moves down your legs with these stretches:

1. Standing hamstring stretch: You can do this anywhere, including outdoors. This is a very common stretch for runners and joggers, and helps ease pain and tightness in the hamstring. Place your right foot at or below your hip level on an elevated surface like a chair, short wall, or even a log or bench if you’re outdoors. Flex your foot so your toes and leg are straight. Keep a slight bend in your knee if you’re prone to hyper-extending it. Bend your body slightly toward your foot. The further you go, the deeper the stretch, but don’t push so far that you feel pain. Some people can bring their upper body flush with their leg, and some will only be able to bend a few inches.

2. Seated spinal stretch: This stretch helps create space in the spine, which helps relieve pain due to spine compression. Sit on the ground with your legs extended out straight, and feet flexed upward. Bend your right knee and place your foot flat on the floor on the outside of your opposite knee. Place your left elbow on the outside of your right knee to help you gently turn your body. Don’t force this twist! Only go as far as you’re able. Hold for 30 seconds, then switch sides.

If the cause of the sciatica pain is misalignments of the vertebra and/ or bulges in the spinal discs, then safe, gentle spinal corrections along with disc reducing exercises are used to correct the problem.

Read more on our website!

Come to Pivotal Chiropractic in Ann Arbor for a Chiropractor Who Puts You First!

We understand that healthcare choices are critical decisions and that you have many different options for pain relief due to sciatica in Ann Arbor and the surrounding communities. If you have back pain, neck pain, or tingling or numbness in your hands and feet, it’s time to see a chiropractor. To schedule a complimentary consultation, where a conversation is never a commitment, contact us at 734-221-0362.