Sciatica Hell!

MJC1116

I want to cry. The sciatic pain I'm experiencing is so awful. I can hardly walk and have resorted to laying on a heating pad to alleviate some of the pain. I know it's because baby has moved down quite a bit and is probably hanging out on the nerve. Any ideas as to what might help? I'm thinking I may schedule an acupuncture appointment for Saturday... thanks girls!

katekat8721

Unfortunately there's not a whole lot that helps the sciatic nerve is encased in bone and difficult to reach, that's why it hurts so bad. My doc doesn't recommend heat, because though it feels good on the surface the area is inflamed and the heat can worsen the pain.

When mine is really bad I get two big ice bags and rest them right above the tailbone on each side. I'll do 20 mins on, 20 mins off and take a Tylenol to help with pain. After that I get in a warm Epsom salt bath then go to bed.

sciatica pain really blows. If you've done acupuncture before and its worked for you I'd try it now!

Hope you feel better!

MJC1116

@katekat8721, thank you so much! I put the heating pad away (had no idea!) and took out the ice pack and iced my back. After a pretty decent night of sleep (I only got up 3 times to pee and eat Tums, score!!), my back feels SO much better. I can actually walk now without assistance. Thank you for helping me!

twistsandturnsto2

Have you tried to sleep with a pillow between your legs too? Keeping the hips in line while you lie down could help a bit too!

katekat8721

@MJC1116 I'm so glad you found some relief! I always used a heating pad whenever mine hurt too until the doc told me not to, haha. Hopefully you can get another good night's sleep tonight, that always helps

Jeffreysmom24

Just saw this post - I am so glad you were able to get some rest last night! Hopefully it continues to feel better. Hang in there!!

MJC1116

@twistsandturnsto2‌, I do for about 2/3 of the night but after getting up for a 4th time to pee, I get frustrated and kick it to the ground! I've noticed the pain is worse mid-afternoon after moving around all day, but definitely noticed relief from the ice. My doctor told me 90% of babies shift to the left for birth, which is likely what's happening. So weird!

Sk8terWoman

I also had some severe, short pain in my lower back near my butt, which I'm assuming is sciatia.  I brought this up with my OB and she said the best remedy is too see a chiropractor who is well versed in prenatal care.  They can work on your alignment.  I bought a pregnancy pillow a few weeks ago, where it goes between my knees and one behind my back and that has helped.