living with sciatica - gym balls, massage, yoga, and beyond...

Many women don't like to admit aches and pains during pregnancy, especially since it's a time when the majority of women tend to bloom and look beautiful. But some women, like me, have problems. Although I may be 'blooming' the aches are still there. The unseen, unheard enemy, sciatica which hindered me during my first pregnancy is back again.

Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve which travels from your lower back, down your legs, and to your feet, becomes inflamed. It usually happens because of the growing size and weight of the baby, which causes pressure on the back, thus creating a painful tingling down the leg. It can be difficult to walk for long periods or stand up for too long.

For me, sciatica has restricted my mobility in the sense that I'm not able to stand for too long, and I also need to keep my feet up quite a lot of the time. But it's not all doom and gloom, I have now managed to devise a coping plan and a few remedies that have helped A LOT during this pregnancy...

First of all I tend to stick to wearing flat shoes or boots most of the time. Clarks does a special range of trainer shoes which have a special arch called 'wave walk', which basically helps to absorb shock and strain when you walk. I bought these during my first pregnancy and am still using them three years on. They're great little runners when you need to walk for long periods with your little one.

The second thing is using a gym ball. Make sure you find one which is suitable for your height and try to use it to sit on whilst at the desk. It helps to keep the back upright and reduces pressure on the legs.

I used to practice Yoga during my first pregnancy and kept it up now as well. It is an excellent way to stretch those lower limbs and also helps prepare for birth, with specific breathing and meditation techniques. Do remember to inform your instructor about any conditions you suffer though, so that they can get an idea of which postures may help you.

Now coming on to the most relaxing part of pregnancy - massage. I have a a masseuse who comes over once a month and she is definitely worth it. I had to try a few before I felt comfortable and it's also advisable to ask the person doing the massage to see certificates or proof that they are qualified to carry out pregnancy massage, especially if you have sciatica or suffer from Pelvic Girdle Pain (which is a loosening of the pelvic area and can cause extreme pain.) Massage helps relieve the pressure on your nerves, and helps to loosen the muscles and joints which can tense up from the pain.

Some useful links...

Clarks' 'wave walk' range can be bought online, but I'd really go in to a store for a fitting, especially since your feet tend to swell up no end during the latter stages of pregnancy: www.clarks.co.uk

The best place to check to find a registered masseuse who will come to your home or a pregnancy yoga class in your area is on the Natural Therapies web site: www.naturaltherapypages.co.uk

Clarins also does a very relaxing Mother-to-be Massage Treatment. You can find your nearest Spa (many of which are located within department stores) on their web site: www.clarins.co.uk

For those of you working or living in the city, I used to attend Sitaram Yoga classes at St Thomas's hospital first time around. The teachers are absolutely amazing and there is a lot of focus on meditation and breathing - www.sitaram.org

You'll be able to find a good gymball at any sports shop, but you may need to buy one with a little extra resistance. The NCT shop has a good one called the 'Pezzi Ball Maxafe' which will see you through your pregnancy, labour, and beyond: www.nctshop.co.uk

Happy healing!