Sciatica pain

[Geedo1]

Hi

I was signed off on Jan 2nd with sciatica im 20 weeks pregnant. In October i was off for 2 days with sciatica pain (then went on a/l) i was pregnant then but didnt know.

My gp says it is due to the hormone relaxin softening my bones and getting my body ready.

Anyway.. i still feel horendous cant turn in bed. Walk more than 10 steps. Struggle with stairs and general movement. Also getting stuck on the toilet at night and needing help off.

My line manager is not supportive. Im a nurse and work stood up all day - which i currently can not do.

She has not asked me how i am once on email or phone- i asked for the day im due back at work to have some time alloctaed to go to my scan. Didnt receive a reply so re emailed. To which i was told i have to attend antenatal appt on my day off or use annual leave. I work for the NHS this is bit correct!! I have spoken with HR who confirmed that she is incorrect. I emailed her to say this and she has not replied for 4 days. Im worried sick about going back to work. Im still not well enough but she is pressuring me to go back-she isnt taking my illness or pregnancy serious.

Any help or advice?

I used a TENS machine during pregnancy due to sciatica. Had amazing results. Loaned one for free via midwife.

You cannot be discriminated against for pregnancy related illness and are entitled to time off for ante natal clinics.ld get in touch with occy health and your union for advice and support. You should have a pregnancy risk assessment done by your manager, I would keep a copy of the emails but don't send any more, leave h.r. and occy health to sort it out.

The Gov.UK website have info on their pregnant employees site, sorry but I cant link it.

Google pigeon stretch... use cushions and go in slowly. Stretching the piriformis can be eye watering but helpful.

Go into a plank,
bring right foot level to right wrist
bring right knee level with left wrist.
NB. closer you have hand to foot the deeper this stretch will be
bring weight into the middle and feel the ache out of right buttock
surrender into the pain
unclench jaw, tongue and take expression of extreme pain off face.
exhale and go deeper into this.

so many youtube sciatic stretches. you can do reverse pigeon and lie on your back, or seated........