Pregnancy can be hard on your body, and your growing bump may come with some back pain. You might also experience sciatica, in which pressure on the sciatic nerve causes a shooting pain in your lower back and leg. This guide will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about sciatica during pregnancy and how a prenatal chiropractor can help you find relief. 

What to Know About Pregnancy & Sciatica

What are the signs of sciatica during pregnancy?

Sciatica is most common during your second and third trimesters. This pressure causes symptoms such as sharp or shooting pain in the buttocks and leg, numbness in the leg and foot, and difficulty walking. Your pain might be constant or occasional, depending on the severity of the condition. A doctor or prenatal chiropractor can diagnose your pain as sciatica. 

How does pregnancy affect sciatica?

The sciatic nerve is located below the uterus, so your baby can irritate or put pressure on the nerve as it develops. This is why you might have more severe sciatica symptoms toward the end of your pregnancy. This condition during pregnancy is very common and will not harm your baby.

How can you alleviate sciatica pain?

If you are experiencing sciatic nerve pain during pregnancy, there are some at-home methods that might provide relief. Heating pads and cold packs may help address the pain. You can also wear supportive shoes and use pillows to find a comfortable sleeping position. Prenatal yoga can also be effective in maintaining your posture and relieving some pain. Over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen can be helpful, but be sure to talk to your doctor before starting a pain-control regimen.

How can a chiropractor help?

Chiropractic care can realign your spine and pelvis, potentially reducing the pressure on your sciatic nerve. Just be sure to see a prenatal chiropractor, as they will have experience working with pregnant patients who have this type of pain. Your chiropractor may use a combination of spinal adjustments and prenatal massage techniques to help you feel more comfortable. They can also give you suggestions for at-home care. 

Whether you’re experiencing sciatica or mild back pain during your pregnancy, the prenatal chiropractor at Pure Balance will help. Located in Manhattan and New Jersey, chiropractor Dr. Michael Magwood has provided quality service since 2001. He and his team will focus your care around your specific needs, recommending services like nutritional counseling and IM=X® Pilates to optimize your wellness. For more information, call (212) 661-5656 in the Murray Hill neighborhood in Midtown Manhattan or (973) 773-8244 in Clifton, NJ. Visit them online to view a full list of their services.