Health Corner

Many mothers in Hong Kong juggle work, childcare, and household chores daily, making them like superheroes who seem to do it all. However, prolonged repetitive work, physical strain during pregnancy, or a backward shift in center of gravity while walking can easily lead to sciatica. What exactly causes sciatica? What are the symptoms? How is it treated? And if pregnant, will it affect the baby? Let's explore these questions.

How can you test if you have sciatica?

Strictly speaking, sciatica is a symptom caused by nerve root compression due to herniated discs, degeneration, bone spurs, or deformities in spinal nerve canals. This results in pain originating in the lower back that radiates through the buttocks to the thigh or calf. Severe cases may cause numbness and weakness in the lower limb. Sometimes lower back pain is mistaken for a strain or sprain that typically resolves in 3–5 days. For recurring pain, the "straight leg raise" test helps identify sciatica. This test is also suitable for pregnant women up to 27 weeks.

Straight Leg Raise Test (Modified Shovel Test)
Lie flat on your back and lift one leg straight up. Normally, a person can raise their leg 60–90 degrees without pain. If pain occurs around 20 degrees of elevation, seek medical advice promptly.

Can heat therapy effectively relieve pain?
Many mothers worry about sciatica during pregnancy. Around 27 weeks, as the baby develops and body weight increases, added strain on the lumbar spine can cause sciatica. Generally, pain eases after the baby is born, so many mothers endure this discomfort. If you experience pain, inform your doctor early. Using a warm compress or soaking in warm water for 15 minutes can help. Also, try these gentle exercises to relax back muscles:

1. Leg Kicks
   Sit on a chair and slowly kick one leg upward, feeling a stretch. Repeat 5 times, holding each kick for 10 seconds.

2. Cat and Camel Exercise
   Place hands straight on the ground, keep back level, knees bent on a mat. Slowly lift head, arching the spine forward and hold 3–5 seconds. Then slowly arch backward and hold 3–5 seconds. Repeat 6–10 times.

Stop exercises immediately and consult a doctor if discomfort occurs.

Hong Kong Registered Physiotherapist
The information on this website is for educational purposes only.
You should consult your doctor regarding surgical options and not rely solely on this information.