If you have been diagnosed with sciatica, your doctor may recommend that you do some sciatica exercises to help with the pain. Sciatica is the name given to a particular type of pain that’s activated by irritation of the sciatic nerve. The pain is usually experienced in the area from the lower back to just behind the knee. The sciatic nerve spans the greatest distance of any nerve in the body, originating in the nerve roots located in the lumbar region of the spine and traveling down to the toes. A herniated disc that winds up pushing up against the nerve is the leading cause of sciatica. However symptoms of sciatica can arise whenever anything inflames or irritates this nerve. Several of the catalysts that often lead to this type of pain are injury, nerve irritation from adjacent bones, infection and internal bleeding. The two best ways to find out if you have sciatica are your medical history and a physical exam.

Symptoms of sciatica can be minimized with a professionally created workout program. Prior to performing sciatica exercises, though, it is imperative to consult a doctor or physical therapist to locate the underlying cause of the pain. Don’t do any of the following exercises without your physician’s approval.

One of the most effective and easiest exercises for sciatica relief is back stretching. While lying on your back, flex your legs to pull your knees close to your chest. Then put your arms around your legs and press beneath the knees. This will lead to a great lower back stretch. Don’t jerk your body, and only stretch to the point where you still feel at ease.

Another thing that will lessen the pain of sciatica is by stretching the quadriceps muscles. Lie face down and pull your right leg up until it touches your buttocks. Take hold of this leg with your right hand and pull your foot as close as you comfortably can. Hold this pose for around 12 seconds and then repeat it on the other side.

Another good stretch for sciatica is to sit on a hard surface and let your palms support your weight. Stretch out your feet in front of you while keeping your back straight. Lower yourself back onto the floor, then bend one of your legs so that the knee faces your chin. Grasp the bent leg in your hands for ten to fifteen seconds, and then do the same for the other leg.

Twisting your torso in stretching poses is another good treatment for sciatica. The best way to start is to sit in a chair that has a straight back while parting your knees slightly. Twist your torso towards one side and hold for 10 seconds, then repeat on the other side.

While you are doing exercises to treat your sciatica, make certain that you maintain good posture and correct breathing during the whole process. Stay relaxed and calm.

Sciatica is a painful disorder that affects the lower body and is caused by pinching of the sciatic nerve at the bottom of the vertebrae. Find out more about sciatica pain treatment at the Sciatic Nerve Pain Treatment site.