WHAT DOES THE DOCTOR DO WHEN HE GETS SCIATICA?
(Spoiler Alert: Crying Isn’t a Treatment Plan)
Let’s just get this out of the way: Yes, even doctors get sciatica. Shocking, right? You’d think we’d be immune—like we get some sort of secret treatment or pill! Nope. The sciatic nerve doesn’t discriminate. It’ll light you up whether you’re a weekend warrior, a desk jockey, or a back-pain specialist who should know better than to deadlift after sitting for 4 hours.
So when I felt that all too familiar ZAP in my left leg last week it was on!
So what did a doctor (ahem, me) do when that nerve decided to light me up?
Well, here’s the not-so-glamorous protocol:
1. Panic (Briefly) and Then Call MY Chiropractor
Yes, even chiropractors need chiropractors! First stop? Absolutely! Why? Because manipulation gets you two quick wins in the form of mobility and pain relief. That snap, crackle, pop might not be magic—but it sure feels like it.
2. Mobility Time: Windshield Wipers & Modified Figure 4 Stretch
Next, I head to the floor—where I’ll probably stay for the rest of the day. I start with some very graceful windshield wipers. Basically, I lie on my back and twist my knees side to side like I’m trying to rock myself to sleep. .
Then comes the modified figure 4 stretch—because the regular one hurts and I’m not here to be a hero. This version lets me gently open up those tight glutes without weeping in public. Progress.
3. Press-Ups, Baby (McKenzie for the Win)
Here’s where I look like a tired seal trying to find motivation. I lie on my stomach and press up, letting my low back arch. Think cobra in yoga but passive. It’s not pretty, but it works. Sometimes I’ll also toss in a prayer to the herniated disc gods.
4. Deadbugs for Core Activation (And Dignity Destruction)
There’s nothing quite like lying on your back, flailing your arms and legs like a dying insect, to remind you that the human body is weird. But deadbugs are gold. They wake up the deep core muscles that tell your spine, “Hey, we got you.”
Pro tip: avoid eye contact with family members while doing these. Trust me.
5. Finish with Nerve Glides (Because Nerves Are Divas)
Last step? Nerve glides. These gentle movements help calm that cranky sciatic nerve down without setting off fireworks. It’s like flossing your nerve—delicate, annoying, but oddly satisfying. Heres how you do it!
The Takeaway?
Even the pros get humbled by sciatica. But instead of popping painkillers and binge-watching Season 3 of Squid Games while lying in the fetal position (okay, maybe just once), I stick to what actually works.
So the next time your leg feels like it’s being zapped by lightning, skip the panic and try the “doctor-approved-but-still-kind-of-awkward” routine above. Sciatica may suck, but your recovery game doesn’t have to.
Need a personalized plan to manage your sciatic pain? Let’s get started today.
Stay active and pain-free,
Dr. Danny Govenar
SD BodyFix
Book Your Appointment Today!
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