One very common complaint that people often come to see us here at Clear Physio for is sciatica, where the sciatic nerve that runs from your lower back down to your feet, becomes irritated or compressed somehow.
It can resolve itself within a few weeks of symptoms appearing but it can take longer, which is why it’s important to know how to address your pain, bring you relief and speed up your recovery time.
Something that may be worth trying is nerve flossing, where you carry out a series of gentle exercises that are intended to mobilise and stretch your nerves to improve your overall range of motion and reduce the irritation you’re experiencing.
One exercise to try is the mobilising floss, where you lie on the floor with your knees bent and both feet hip-width apart and flat on the floor.
Tuck your chin into your chest and, while you relax your upper body, pull one of your legs in towards the chest. Holding behind your knee, straighten the leg out slowly until you feel a stretch. You can also do this with both knees at the same time. Return back to the starting position and repeat five times before switching to the other leg.
Or you could try a hamstring floss, where you raise one leg onto a step while keeping it straight and your toes pointing up. Keep your back straight and tilt your head and neck forwards until you feel a small pulling sensation in your back.
Then point your toe while bringing your chin to the chest. Flex your foot, repeating five times before returning to your start position. Repeat with the other leg.
These interventions are best carried out with the help of a professional physiotherapist, however, so if you are experiencing sciatica and need assistance with your symptoms, get in touch with the Clear Physio team today.
