Background
Lower back pain is experienced by 80 percent of the population. What is important is that in lower back pain, radiating symptoms may be experienced. This radiating pain may extend into a person's lower limbs and result in decreasing their strength and flexibility. Commonly associated with this radiating pain is the Sciatic Nerve. The Sciatic Nerve is located here:
This condition is commonly referred to as Sciatica. Nerve glides can be performed to help improve the nerve's movement and to reduce symptoms. This is accomplished by removing damages to the Sciatic Nerve and results in it becoming more pliable.
Treatment - Sciatic Nerve Glides
To begin, start in a seated position. Slowly extend your leg while pointing your toes forward. This ankle motion is known as plantar flexion. When you feel a stretch in your lower back or thigh, stop there. Perform 10 repetitions.
Seated Sciatic Nerve Glide With Ankle Plantarflexion
To increase the intensity of the stretch, extend your leg and point your toes back towards you. This ankle motion is known as dorsiflexion.
Seated Sciatic Nerve Glide With Ankle Dorsiflexion
You can further intensify the stretch by slouching forward and repeating the steps above. Remember to not over stretch!
Seated Sciatic Nerve Glide With Ankle Dorsiflexion and Slouched Posture
These can also be performed while laying on your back. Hold your leg as shown and follow the same rules before by slowly extending your leg and pointing your toes forward. Remember, do not over stretch the nerve. Perform 10 repetitions.
Lying Sciatic Nerve Glide With Ankle Plantarflexion
Point your toes towards you once the leg is extended to further intensify the stretch.
Lying Sciatic Nerve Glide With Ankle Dorsiflexion
As you progress, you can flex your neck forward and follow the same steps as before.
Lying Sciatic Nerve Glide With Ankle Dorsiflexion and Neck Flexion
