What it is
Sciatica during pregnancy is typically a result of sciatic nerve compression due to the growing size and weight of the fetus.
How it is treated with physical therapy
Therapist will address any muscle imbalances with work on the soft tissue in the hips and low back depending in your presentation. You will be taught how to improve your posture as well as specific strategies to decompress the nerve on your own. You will also be given any relevant stretching and strengthening exercises depending on your needs.
Your Homework
You will be taught relevant stretching and strengthening exercises, as well as nerve decompression techniques to relieve the pain at home.
How many sessions
This varies dramatically from patient to patient. I have treated patients and they have felt ready to take on the rest of their pregnancy after just one visit, and I have had others that feel the manual therapy is a critical piece for them to have a comfortable third trimester and they have come every other week until delivery.
Pelvic Health Physical Therapy 