《Exercise for Sciatica from a Herniated Disc》.docVIP

Exercise for Sciatica from a Herniated Disc By: Ron S. Miller, PT /wellness/exercise/overview-sciatica-exercises Leg pain or sciatica (also known as radiculopathy) from a herniated disc is commonly caused by disc material protruding backwards and irritating or compressing a nerve root, which in turn causes pain to radiate along the sciatic nerve. Specific lower back exercises for sciatica pain relief from a herniated disc are prescribed according to which positions will cause the patient’s symptoms to move up the lower extremity and into the low back. Fig 1: Rise up on elbows, keeping hips on floor. During these sciatica exercises for a herniated disc, the low back is gently placed into extension by lying on the stomach (prone position) and propping the upper body up on the elbows, keeping hips on the floor (Figure 1). This sciatica exercise should be started slowly, since some patients cannot tolerate this position at first. Hold the press-up position initially for five seconds, and gradually work up to 30 seconds per repetition. Aim to complete 10 repetitions. After practicing this sciatica exercise, the spine specialist may recommend a more advanced form of the extension: From the prone position (lying flat on the stomach), press up on the hands while the pelvis remains in contact with the floor (Figure 2). Keep the lower back and buttocks relaxed for a gentle stretch. Fig 2: Press up on hands slowly, keeping hips in contact with floor. Relax low back and buttocks. This position is typically held for 1 second, repeated 10 times. If the patient is unable to lie flat, similar sciatica exercises can be done standing by arching backward slowly with hands on hips (Figure 3). However, the prone position described above is usually preferred. Fig 3: Standing backward bend. With hands on hips and knees slightly bent, arch back slowly and slightly. These extension exercises are done regularly, about every two hours. More importantly, the spine specialist may reco