Sciatica Pain is actually caused by an inflammation/ irritation of the sciatica nerve where it exits the spinal column. The usual care for this includes anti inflammatory medications, pain control, and possibly a muscle relaxant to aid in sleeping (reduces muscle spasm when trying to achieve a position of comfort),
Also prescribed is a regimen of stretches for tendons and ligaments, and exercises to strengthen muscle groups affecting how the skeleton relates to the nerve. Usually the stretching affects the muscles/tendons of the lateral and posterior legs and buttocks. Usually the muscles of the lower abdomen and lower back are exercised and strengthened
I suppose that if the swimming stretches and strengthens the appropriate regions, then yes, swimming would be an aid to relieve the pain. You will probably need to get to the point in your recovery where you are beyond the pain response before swimming, as the kicking motion and its transfer into the back, might tend to prolong the nerve irritation.
Posts Tagged ‘Swimming’
Can Swimming Laps Help Sciatica Pain?
Saturday, January 23rd, 2010Why Is Swimming Good For Your Back When You Have A Back Injury? Doctor Prescribed Swimming.?
Tuesday, November 24th, 2009It’s called aqua therapy. Make sure you don’t over do it though because you won’t realize it until you are out of the water. Also, it depends on how you swim. If you swim a certain way then it will still hurt. Oh, and make sure you drink plenty of water after getting out of the pool. The way I recommend swimming is where your arms go up and down forward (can’t remember that darn swimming technique name) Also, you could use one of those noodles in the deep end because it will take all the pressure off the spine. I hope this was helpful. Good luck! (and sorry to hear about the back injury)
Is The Dolphin Kick In Swimming Hard On Your Lower Back If You Have A Back Injury?
Sunday, November 22nd, 2009Yes. You use your lower back to bring your legs backwards and you slightly bend your knees and use your thighs to kick forwards. You use all your muscles is swimming so don’t go over the top if you have an injury or you will make it worse.
