Theres nothing fun aboutsciatica.
And thats definitely a solid win.
Here, weve rounded up must-know info on sciatica followed by seven great stretching exercises for sciatica.
Katie Thompson
First though, some important caveats: Most cases of mild sciatica go away over time.
Keep scrolling for everything you should probably know.
What is sciatica?
Usually sciatica happens on just one side of your body, according to theMayo Clinic.
The good news about sciatica: Its very common, Chow says.
And its not anything to freak out about.
Like we mentioned, in many cases, sciatic pain usually goes away on its own over time.
And in most cases, sciatica doesnt lead to long-term damage or long-term complications.
In the interim, though, certain stretches and exercises may help alleviate some of the discomfort.
How stretches and exercises can help sciatica feel better
Certain stretches and exercisescanhelp ease sciatic nerve pain.
But, how, exactly, can movement be helpful?
Basically, strength moves help coordinate the parts of your musculoskeletal system to move more efficiently.
How to stay safe if you have sciatica
The biggest safety tip for managing sciatica?
Stay active and move frequently, Chow says.
Stretches and exercises for sciatica
The following stretches and exercises may help ease sciatica.
As you stretch, let pain be your guide, Scantlebury says.
Do the three moves up to three or four times a day, Chow says.
The higher your hands, the easier the move will be.
If 30 seconds feels too challenging, start with 10- to 15-second holds.
Forearm Plank
This exercise is a more challenging version of the elevated plank.
Again, double-check you primarily feel it in your core and not your back or shoulders.
If 30 seconds feels too challenging, start with 10- to 15-second holds.
