Sciatica refers to a condition that affects the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down to the legs. People who live with sciatica often experience severe lower back pain and tingling or numbness in the feet and toes. To improve your well-being and quality of life, keep the following do’s and don’ts in mind.

Do:

Strengthen your core.

Core exercises, like planks and crunches, strengthen the abdominal and lower back muscles, which help protect your spine and keep it properly aligned. Over time, this helps you avoid motions that may irritate the sciatic nerve and keep painful symptoms and stiffness at bay. 

See a shiatsu therapist.

Shiatsu therapy can help to alleviate the symptoms of sciatica like lower back pain. It also releases the body’s natural pain-fighting chemicals known as endorphins. 

Don’t:

Lift heavy weights.

Lifting weights puts pressure on the sciatic nerve and worsens pain. Rather than training with heavy weights, focus on body weight exercises like squats, lunges, and push-ups. These will strengthen your core, lower back, and legs. If you don’t know how to lift properly, consult a personal trainer for your safety. 

Sleep on your stomach.

Sleeping on your stomach makes it difficult to maintain a neutral position, placing significant strain on your spine and the ligaments in your back. Try to sleep on your back with a pillow under your knees for support.

If you’re interested in scheduling a shiatsu massage for sciatica, turn to the team of masseuses at Aisen Chiryo Doin in Honolulu, HI. With over 40 years of experience practicing natural healing methods, the highly trained massage professionals provide their clients with customized treatment plans. Call (808) 596-7354 today to make an appointment, or visit their website to learn more about their full list of services.