In the quest to help alleviate back pain in my patients, I have been looking a lot more online about certain conditions. Lately, I have been focusing on sciatica.
If you are not already aware, sciatica is when something adversely affects the sciatic nerve. It is not actually a specific condition but a symptom of another injury. The pain shoots down the buttock and the back of the legs. Standing or sitting for too long can exacerbate the condition as well.
My first recommendation is to visit a licensed chiropractor in your area to get examined. Many times traditional Western medicine providers overlook the real root of the problem. We offer free initial consultations, however not every practice does.
Chiropractic can help alleviate the pain, but staying in shape, stretching and exercise will do wonders to keep things in line. Yoga is a fantastic way to do all of the above.
Here are the three basic poses that will help your sciatic nerve pain:
Downward Dog - One of the best known and popular poses, this one starts with you bending over at the waist. Lean forward and place your palms flat on the floor. You want to try to achieve an inverted V shape. Keep your feet and palms as flat as possible for 2 minutes. Look in at your belly to avoid neck strain. If you can't do 2 minutes, go as long as is comfortable. Remember not to force it.
Butterfly - sitting down, bring the bottoms of your feet together and in toward your pelvic area. Your knees should be outward. You will feel the stretch in your pelvic area.
Forward Bend - stand straight up as tall as you can with your legs shoulder width apart. Bend/lean forward at the waist keeping your back as flat as possible. Stay in that position as long as is comfortable.
If you are having trouble at first, it's ok. Look up a local yoga studio if you find it helpful. They are used to training new students and you can get in a class with people of like experience.
Remember, don't force it. Enjoy the stretch.
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