Hi there! I'm 37 weeks pregnant and have suffered off and on with sciatica throughout this pregnancy and with my firstborn as well.
This may seem obvious, but have you tried basic Extra Strength Tylenol? My doc told me to take 2 tablets 4x/day. She also recommended a belly belt. You can get them at any maternity store. I found mine at Motherhood in Rivertown Crossings Mall (Grandville).
Also, I used a heating pad on my back for a few days when a flare-up was really bad, and currently I'm experiencing no pain.
My doc told me to take the Tylenol/belly belt route for 4-5 days, and said that if it didn't get better, she'd start physical therapy. I lucked out with the tylenol/belly belt route. You should definitely talk to your OB about it. My sciatica was at its absolute worst immediately after my son was born, I couldn't even walk from my hospital bed to the bathroom without assistance. I don't plan on letting it get that bad this time.
Just as a side...I was going to a chiropractor from about Nov - Jan. I experienced increased pain after an adjustment and never went back. So, the chiropractic route didn't work for me in that area.
I'm also having problems sleeping, but it's due to my hip joints being so loose from the hormones. Pillows really do help. See if you can find one that supports your back while sleeping.
Also, try and take it easy as possible. Because it's a nerve, it's all irritated and cranky. It'll take a few days for the inflamation to go down. Rest up if you can mama!
-------------------- ~jules
Edited by jules (02/13/07 05:21 AM)
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