Question
Recently (3-4 days ago) I started having some fairly moderate back pain that went into one of my buttocks and down into my rear thigh.  Through some research I believe I have an sciatica nerve issue.  I have a hamstring/stretching routine that I do daily (sometimes as many as 9 times a day...I teach PE.)  Is this stretcing routine OK to do during times where a sciatica nerve might be acting up?

Answer
Hello Gary,


    Yes, definately keep stretching.  I would incorporate the following stretches in addition:  IT band, Glutes, and low back.  The sciatic nerve is often trapped in between the periformis muscle which is deep to the gluteus muscles.  Some times laying on a tennis ball helps to relieve tension.  If you experience weekness in the leg or atrophy setting in, consult a doctor right away.  I would recommend an exam by a  Doctor of Chiropractic just make sure what the cause of the sciatica is.

Have a great day,

Dr. Brendon O'Brien D.C.