Doctor explains why sciatica is bad at night and how to improve it

From bristolpost.co.uk

A variety of things can cause sciatica and it is a painful condition

Does sciatica give you severe pain in your lower back and legs? Besides hindering your days, it can disturb your nights and prevent you from getting a good night’s rest.

Dr Tony Nalda, who leads the Scoliosis Reduction Center, explains why sciatica pain is worse at night and what you can do about it.

What is sciatica?

Sciatica is a medical condition that occurs when something else in your body rubs or presses on your sciatic nerve. Possible causes include back injuries, spondylolisthesis, spinal stenosis, and slipped discs - a common reason.

What are the symptoms?

Dr Nalda said: "The most common symptom of sciatica is shooting pains in your hips and legs. You may also experience weakness or numbness, or find it hard to move your legs. Some people have tingling or stabbing pains in their legs and thighs, or increased discomfort when they sit down."

Why is it worse at night?

People have fewer distractions overnight, which makes the discomfort seem more pronounced as it’s all the mind has to focus on. Dr Nalda said: "Also, lying down for extended periods increases pressure on the sciatic nerve.’ Finally, the lack of movement at night can cause the muscles around the sciatic nerve to stiffen."

What are the options?

Dr Nalda has these tips to help reduce your sciatica pain:

• Sleep on your back or side, not your front. Front sleeping doesn’t properly support the spine, and it increases nerve irritation.

• Use supportive body pillows and a medium to firm mattress.

• Do stretching exercises before you go to bed and after you get up to increase flexibility and blood circulation.

• Alternate between cold packs to reduce swelling and heat sources (like warm baths) to soothe muscle tension and ease discomfort.

• Ask your pharmacist or doctor about stronger painkillers if normal over-the-counter medication isn’t working.

• Do gentle exercises throughout the day to keep your body moving, and don’t sit or lie down for long periods if you can help it.

• If you’re experiencing pain on one side, laying on that side can make your hip feel more uncomfortable, so try lying on the other side.

Dr Nalda said: "A medical specialist may recommend physiotherapy, painkilling injections, or even surgery. If you act wisely, you can lessen the pain and improve your quality of life."

https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/health/doctor-explains-sciatica-bad-night-9191111