4 replies to this topic

[Bobbie]

Hello all, I am a caregiver to a man who is a C-6 quad.
Can someone tell me if there are specific exercises that relieve Sciatica problems?
I have done many hours of ROM exercises and stretching but nothing ever seems to help
with this problem.
Iv heard there is some specific exercises that relieve the pain somewhat and are for Sciatica issues.
Have any of you tried/heard of them?
I would appreciate any advice you could give.
Thank you in advance

[Apparelyzed]

Hi Bobbie,

I'm not sure about the exercises, but I did find this which may be of interest to you.

Those with lower back pain have historically been prescribed bed rest in order to offer relief for aching bones and joints. Research in recent years has suggested that bed rest alone will not offer relief for those suffering from nerve pain such as sciatica. Staying active may be more beneficial for those who suffer from back pain. Not to say that you should be running marathons! Activity means being up and mobile for periods of time that are not enough to cause further pain and aggravation to your back. Some physicians may prescribe specific exercises, or some may simply suggest walking.

A Dutch study, published in The New England Journal of Medicine, followed 183 patients with sciatica. Half of these were counseled to follow a regimen of bed rest with breaks only for bathing and using the toilet. The other half were instructed to remain active as usual. The patients symptoms were evaluated after two weeks and again after twelve weeks. Whether they had rested or not, the patients symptoms in the two groups were consistent. Two thirds reported improvement and both groups recorded similar numbers of days off work and subsequent surgeries.

Pain relief

Pain is best treated with a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory such as ibuprofen or codeine (in acute cases).

In some cases a cortisone like drug may be injected into the epidural space surrounding the spinal column. This procedure is similar to the epidural used during childbirth. A course of this type of treatment may offer temporary relief, but does not address the root of the problem.

Surgery

Some patients with sciatica may find significant relief from surgery. In cases of herniated discs, a surgical procedure called a laminectomy may be performed. In this procedure, a portion of the posterior arch is removed to relieve pressure on affected nerve tissues.

In cases of spinal stenosis, the portion of bone that is putting pressure on the sciatic nerve system can be removed.

Surgery is not for everyone. However, for those who have shown no sign of improvement in four to six weeks and who have had CT scans (computed tomography) or MRI that show a herniated disc or spinal stenosis, surgery may offer significant relief.

Source

Regards

Simon

[Tired of hurting]

When I was in the hospital a male nurse gave me my meds and said I'll be back to help you stretch out your legs. Mine were spasmed and wouldn't lay flat. I layed on my back and he gently starting moving my legs up to my stomach. When they loosened up,he got a plastic bag and put it under my left foot. He just slid it up and down the bed. Then he handed it to me and said you start doing it. So I did and it worked. Then I just layed there and enjoyed being flat. This only works if you are medicated so you body can relax. something else I've read is vit B1 is good, and garlic. They believe siatica is a virus that attacks the nerves. Thats all I know about that...Have a good day.

[Bobbie]

Thank you very much for your replies and research I appreciate it very much.
Im sure Ill be back to ask for your help if you will allow that

[Avocado Baby]

Hi there,

I haven't had sciatica cos I don't have sensation there but I have had TOS which apparently is the equivelant in your arm. I found stretches definitely helped too. That and strong painkillers.

Hope you get some relief soon!