Exercising with health issues...

MrsSpitser

Hi everyone. I am 33 years old. I weigh 354. I've been on leave at work for 3 weeks. In that time, I've been having a lot of back and leg pain. I went to my doc and she says I have Sciatica. She suggested stretching. Are there exercises that help with Sciatica? Or maybe exercises that don't aggravate the condition?

AllanMisner

I would definitely seek a physical therapist, but if that isn’t an option, I think the point is to just start moving. A little at first and then progress. Reach to the sky, touch your toes, slow twists to each side. Walk.

Cherimoose

Search Youtube for sciatica stretches and try a few of them.

Also search there for "drawing in maneuver" and practice it all throughout the day, when sitting, walking, etc. That works the muscle that supports your back.

Cycling & walking might work for exercise..?

LovingLife_Erin

I have similar nerve pain, but from neck issues and it goes down my left arm/face (long term issue). Stay away from high impact stuff, and really listen to your pain. There is good pain (normal pain from pushing yourself, like the feeling you get with a good stretch) and bad pain. If there is bad pain, stop and do not push yourself. Physiotherapy might also be something you could benefit from.

If you can get to a pool, try swimming, or aqua aerobics. The water will take pressure off your spine and you can do so much more. I love my aqua class as I can jump around and do so many things that I couldn't do on land.

MrsSpitser

Thanks for the information! I used to have a gym membership to a facility that had a pool. It was wonderful! But I moved to a town that doesn't have a gym or any type of public pool.