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Chiropractors/sciatica pain & stretching routine

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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.

Chiropractors

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Dr. Brendon J. O`Brien, D.C.

Expertise

Questions related to: Chiropractic, Physical Therapy, Soft Tissue Treatment, Nutrition, Acupuncture, and the integration of Chinese and Western medicine.

Experience

Dr. O'Brien is a highly skilled doctor of Chiropractic who has come to Minneapolis, Minnesota from Rochester, Minnesota. Dr. O'Brien has a extensive knowledge of sports related injuries and myofascial conditions. Dr. O'Brien has competed in Judo, Mountain Biking, Road Cycling, Free-Style Skiing, Cross-Country Skiing, Baseball, Basketball, and continues to compete in Mountain Biking, Road Cycling, and Cross-Country Skiing.

Education/Credentials
D.C., Certified Acupuncturist in Minnesota.

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