Is postpartum sciatica normal?

Postpartum sciatica is not completely normal. It may be related to factors such as physical changes during delivery, nerve compression, hormone fluctuations or improper posture. The cause should be found in time and targeted intervention measures should be taken to avoid worsening symptoms and affecting the quality of life.

1. Cause Analysis

Postpartum sciatica can be caused by a variety of reasons:

- Physiological factors (hormone and weight changes): Rapid changes in hormone levels after childbirth lead to incomplete recovery of the pelvis and surrounding ligaments. In addition, weight gain during pregnancy may compress the sciatic nerve and cause pain.

-Nerve damage during childbirth: During vaginal delivery, the fetus passing through the birth canal may compress or stretch the sciatic nerve, causing inflammation or pain.

- Improper posture and long-term fatigue: Postpartum breastfeeding, holding the baby, etc. lead to uneven pressure distribution in the lower back and pelvis, which may aggravate nerve compression or inflammation.

-Residual muscle or tissue damage: If the waist and hip muscles and soft tissues are damaged during pregnancy or childbirth and recovery is not timely, sciatica will appear or worsen.

2. How to relieve or treat

-Physical therapy: Nerve pain can be relieved through professional physical therapy, acupuncture or massage. For example, hot compresses or moderate alternating hot and cold therapy can improve blood circulation and relieve pain.

- Posture correction and appropriate exercise: Avoid maintaining the same posture for a long time. For example, you can use a nursing pillow when breastfeeding, and try to maintain a correct posture when standing or walking. Appropriate postpartum rehabilitation training such as yoga or Pilates can be performed to strengthen core muscle strength.

-Drug treatment: If the pain is severe, you can consult a doctor to use over-the-counter analgesics, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Some severe patients may need to use nerve analgesics for a short period of time, and should use the medication under the guidance of a doctor.

-Dietary adjustment: Supplement foods containing calcium, magnesium and B vitamins, such as milk, green vegetables, nuts, etc., which can help repair nerves and relieve muscle tension.

3. Beware of serious lesions

If sciatica is accompanied by persistent numbness in the lower limbs, decreased muscle strength, or bowel and urinary dysfunction, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible to rule out neurological diseases such as lumbar disc herniation.

Postpartum is an important stage for women's physical recovery. Although sciatica may be temporary, it cannot be ignored. Through scientific care and timely treatment, symptoms can be effectively relieved and physical recovery can be promoted. If the pain persists and is severe, it is recommended to consult a doctor as soon as possible to clarify the cause and take professional treatment measures.