Slipped disc/sciatica

[passionfruity]

We're thinking of TTC and I'd really like to hear from anyone who had back problems before they got pregnant. For example, how did you manage both in late pregnancy and after the birth?
Last year I was diagnosed with a disc problem in my lower back which caused sciatica, I could barely sit down and was off work for several months. It's generally ok now but I still can't lift anything heavy or sit for long periods.
I've seen various doctors etc but am interested to hear your experiences. Thanks!

[DaisyMaisyJessicaEmily]

marking place

[bobblesmama]

I have the same problem and gave birth 3 weeks ago . I saw the consultant at 12 weeks to discuss potential issues but she said it was rare for a flare up during pregnancy due to the relaxed ligaments etc.

The only problem I did have was that I had to have a emcs and the anaesthetist had to place the epidural higher than he ordinarily would ad he couldn't fit it in where the damaged disc was.

Hope that makes sense, typing one handed at 2.30 am whilst feeding newborn daughter =)

[MockCroc]

I have a disc bulge at L5 / S1. Before I was pg it would flare up periodically giving me sciatica and I would treat it with diclofenac. I was worried how I would cope during pregnancy, with the strain on my posture and the inability to take anti-inflams.
I decided to be proactive and started Pilates at 16 wks. I do it twice a week and it is brilliant for strengthening the back and core. At tr first sign of twinges I se the osteopath. I couldn't recommend staying active and Pilates enough. I am now 33 wks and my disc has been ok. Everything else aches .
If you aren't yet ttc I would recommend staring Pilates now so you can do it throughout. Stay active when pg (I walk the dog lots!). Try to avoid gaining too much weight so you don't put additional strain on your back. Ditch the high heels once your body starts to change and buy a Swiss ball to sit on, do Pilates on and keep your back mobile. You may be surprised at how well your back does.
Good luck!

[Fishandjam]

I had an L5/S1 discectomy last June. I'm now 32 weeks with DC2. So far nothing much to report, save that I am having some unpleasant sciatic twinges - but down both legs, and usually after a big foetal movement (I think it's kicking me in the lumbar nerves!) It really helps if I keep mobile (walking about, though not standing - that hurts) and also, when upright, to engage the stomach muscles, tuck my coccyx under and keep my lower back straight, not bowed forward - easier said than done when you're getting bigger!

[musicalmrs]

I have the same as MockCroc - bulging disc at L5/S1. I'm now 38w+4.

My back is doing amazingly well! It has started hurting more now even if I sit in a good posture - finding the birthing ball the only comfortable place to sit for any length of time now. Also finding I'm getting sciatic-like symptoms... however, up until a month ago I had hardly any pain, so I really can't complain :)

I should mention that via a combination of physio, Alexander Technique and lots of taking care in general, my back was a lot better before we started TTC than it had been when I was diagnosed with the problem and was told I should have surgery (a year or so beforehand).