Sciatica can be very difficult to deal with. The leg pain, muscle weakness, shooting pain, tingling and numbness in the extremities can put a damper on nearly any activity, including your ability to drive. If you need to make a long car trip for any reason, whether for work or pleasure, contending with sciatic symptoms can make driving difficult or even impossible. 

Because of the many different underlying conditions that cause it, sciatic nerve compression can be a notoriously difficult condition to diagnose and treat. Physical therapists are uniquely qualified to treat sciatica because of their ability to identify mechanical, postural and other issues that lead to painful flare-ups. They can also provide instruction on lifestyle changes and self-treatments that can help relieve and prevent symptoms. For example, a therapist can offer practical information to help you deal with sciatica during a long car trip. 

While it’s important to always work with a qualified professional who understands your unique condition and treatment needs, we’re providing the following tips to help you seek treatment on an informed basis. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or would like to learn more. 

Follow these tips for less sciatica pain during car trips

Ways to potentially prevent sciatica while driving include:

1. Stretch — Tight muscles can put excessive pressure on the sciatic nerve. Stretching before, during and after your car trip can help loosen and relax muscles. 
2. Take frequent breaks — Don’t be afraid to stop and move around as often as you need. Even a quick five-minute break could prevent hours of pain. 
3. Drink plenty of water —Staying hydrated is an important way to prevent muscle spasms and nerve-related symptoms. 

Your physical therapist can provide proper instruction and advice on these and other lifestyle tips that can help you successfully manage sciatica during everyday life. 

Start your sciatica relief journey with Rehab Access

By identifying the physical causes that are leading to your sciatica symptoms, our caring and dedicated physical therapists can help you develop an effective treatment plan. With options like therapeutic exercise and trigger point therapy, we’ll help you relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve and prevent painful episodes. 

Get back to the healthy and active lifestyle you deserve; contact our team today and schedule your initial appointment.