Anyone have sciatica?

[blueberrylady]

I feel lousy today because I had a touch of sciatica last night. It wasn't really as bad as I've had it in the past with the cramping of the hamstring and the burning sensation all the way down my leg, but it was enough to keep me awake half the night. Now I can't think for the brain fog and I don't feel like doing anything. I was going to spend 30 minutes on the elliptical machine but I just can't seem to get started. Anyone else out there suffering with this? If so, what do you do for it?

[momtomany1]

Re: Anyone have sciatica?

Never had that.. I am sorry you are hurting, hope it gets better and you have a good day!

[redfoxglove]

Re: Anyone have sciatica?

I've had the symptoms you describe. It is often caused by soreness and tenderness in a specific muscle in the lower back. A well trained massage therapist might be able to help you. You have to find one that is trained to do advanced work, not just a relaxing massage.

[Time2Shine]

Re: Anyone have sciatica?

I feel lousy today because I had a touch of sciatica last night. It wasn't really as bad as I've had it in the past with the cramping of the hamstring and the burning sensation all the way down my leg, but it was enough to keep me awake half the night. Now I can't think for the brain fog and I don't feel like doing anything. I was going to spend 30 minutes on the elliptical machine but I just can't seem to get started. Anyone else out there suffering with this? If so, what do you do for it?

I used to have it...then I did Atkins (2004) and it cleared up like magic. Never has returned. And it wasn't just a weight loss issue, it went away soon after induction and I'm sure it was due to the lack of carbs (yeast) in my system. Many things cleared up for me (foggy brain, headaches, joint aches, gas, fuzzy vision at times). Atkins is a godsend to may who suffer from these little ailments.

How long have you been following Atkins? If not long, then there's hope for you to lose the sciatica through this eating plan/way of life.

And sciatica isn't a muscle soreness, it's a nerve that gets pinched between the lower back/hip area and runs down your leg. Always on the right (I'm pretty sure). There's not a whole lot you can "do" for it, but you need to relax and take aspirin/pain reliever. The nerve will work itself out. I pinched mine badly once, long ago, when I was doing some straddle side bends on the floor. Legs apart, bend to one knee with your head....couldn't walk for two days because my leg would give out if I stepped on the right. A chiropractor had to do a full body workup on me and it did the trick. He popped my hips, neck, shoulders, spine and did a very intense massage with vibrating pads that made me feel like one of those concrete construction hammers. Oy! Did the trick though and I could walk again. Never was that bad again, but it only takes once to remember. Warm baths might help as well.

Google sciatica or go to WebMD.com to get accurate info. It's the best source for medical info.

[sugarfreeone]

Re: Anyone have sciatica?

I have sciatica. I have pain on a daily basis and my weight issue only makes it worse. I have a bulging disc and muscle spasms that cause the sciatic pinching and its terribly uncomfortable. Im back here again at this board for the 25th time , returning to try and get this weight off BECAUSE of this pain...and because I dont want diabetes like my grandmother had. I know how you feel. Sciatic pain is horrible. Hope yours is more temporary than mine is...mine is chronic.

[blueberrylady]

Re: Anyone have sciatica?

Time2Shine, Thanks for the advice, especially about the chiropractor. I will definitely look into that if it gets worse. It was bothering me a little bit when I first got up this morning but it's gone now.

Sugarfree, I'm sorry to hear that yours is a chronic condition. I don't know how you can stand having it all the time. Pain like that is probably what drives you to eat the sugar because you need something to make you feel better. You have my sympathy and I sincerely hope that Atkins relieves it for you. Good luck!

[misplaced southerner]

Re: Anyone have sciatica?

hi blueberry....i have had it since i was about 20. not sure why or how it started. it flares up when i am overly tired and overworked.....my pain is mostly down the back of my right leg. i find that for quick relief, if i am sitting in my computer chair or driving, i place a tennis ball under that area of my thigh...it acts as a massager on that pressure point. i got this trick from my chiropractor. it does not cure it but makes me comfortable while i have to sit.....i do see my chiropractor about every 6 weeks. it helps. also, keep active and do lots of stretching....hope you feel better!

[FLdoodette]

Re: Anyone have sciatica?

My sympathies to all who suffer from back pain from any source! It is a misery. I wouldn't miss my monthly chiropractic adjustments for anything. Losing weight and exercising regularly have helped quite a bit already, though, especially strengthening those core muscles that support the back; not to mention the increased flexibility. Stretching is very important, especially the lumbar portion of your back, your glutes (butt muscles) and hamstrings. And there's always the ever-popular Epsom salt bath Ahhhhh!