AboutBarry Hughes, Ph.D. Expertise I can answer questions related to chronic pain management involving issues such as associated depression, sexual problems, relationship issues and disability. I can suggest resources and many times "what to do next." I can't answer questions that ask for a medical diagnosis, or to recommend a specific medication. I also stay current on issues related to chronic pain as publisher of Chronic Pain Alternatives.
Experience I am familiar with helping people set up their own pain management program to meet their specific needs. This includes alternative managment techniques such as relaxation training, acupuncture, massage, etc. I have worked with many clients in chronic pain from illness or injury.
Question QUESTION: Hello. I am male 25yrs old. I am suffering from sciatica. I have been taking pain relief pills for the past two months and now I am trying to refrain from lifting and driving. Can you kindly suggest any excercises which can improve my condition and lessen the pain? perhaps suggest some video tutorials or sites? Thanks!!
ANSWER: Hi Paul
Thanks for your question.
If there is a studio close and it's not too expensive, you might consider a yoga class, preferably a hatha yoga. Talk to the teacher and let her know you have sciatica so she (or he) can make modifications. In the long run that should help you.
A couple other alternatives:
On the page below, go down toward the bottom of the page and look for the link to the "Healthy Back Institute." They have a program that they sell that includes exercises, etc.
For a no-cost alternative, try this site below. The lady who runs it is a physical therapist, and she has information on sciatica and also some diagrams of exercises.
Actually, one other thing I just thought of but haven't checked out; you might go to youtube and search under sciatica exercise or back pain exercise and see if someone has some videos up. I think I'll head over there and see what they have.
You're smart to get started with an exercise program in addition to your other treatment. You have a much better chance of success in the long run that way.
Good luck
Barry Hughes
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QUESTION: Thanks for your advice.
Also what I forgot to tell you is that when I lean on my back and lift my leg I up in the air I cannot straighten my left leg as if something is preventing it from doing so. The right leg is fine. What could I possibly do? and what might be preventing it?
Thanks again
Answer Hi Paul
In addition to the pain from sciatica, depending on the type and degree of impingement on the nerve, there can be various problems with motor function. That's a possibility, or it may be due to muscle tightness or tension.
If you're uncomfortable with proceeding with an exercise program because of concern about possibly injuring yourself, it might help to have your doctor refer you to a physical therapist to suggest some initial exercises to get you going.
