Family member, sciatica, & running

Pain & Rehab Forum [Moderated]
1

Hi,

As a preface, my dad has had consistent back pain for the past few years. His health care professional, I assume his PCP, has affirmed that his pain episodes relate to a sciatic nerve impingement. He has reported on numerous occasions that he has “shooting pain” up/down his lower extremities.

This is a very brief, and possible inaccurate narrative, considering I’m writing this instead of him.

Recently, he has mentioned that his favorite mode of exercise, running, has been discouraged via his health care professionals due to the possibility of the high forces inducing impingement on his nerves, causing pain, causing sequlae. (That is my interpretation of what he told me)

I mentioned that that sounds rather biomechanical, and while cool, there might be more to the story (biological, psychological, social factors). I said he could, if he wants, induce a graded exposure of running, and see if he tolerates it. If not, change stuff around (volume, intensity, etc.). I’m no professional, so my confidence in that suggestion is rather weak.

He is reportedly very afraid that these high forces on his joints could crunch his nerves, causing significant pain, disability and maybe even surgery down the road.

He’s on his own journey, and who am I to intervene, but I want to know the groups thoughts on this (if possible).

Thank you for all you do, and happy new year!

2

I would not at all agree with the management strategies suggested by your father’s PCP, and I would also question the means by which he arrived at this diagnosis of sciatic nerve impingement.

It is incredibly frustrating and disappointing to hear healthcare professionals discouraging participation in the physical activity that their patients find enjoyable and meaningful.

There is no evidence that the “forces of running” would “crunch” or damage nerves. Narratives like this are baseless and evoke fear in patients, like your father, and likely do much more harm than good.

I would agree with your general recommendation of a graded exposure to running. There are many variables that can be manipulated including volume, intensity, frequency, etc. in order to find a tolerable entry point for your father back into running.

We love to promote self-management, but we recognize that this can become much more difficult when individuals have been exposed to harmful narratives, especially by healthcare professionals. If he is interested to an alternative approach to management, we would also be happy to consult with him remotely.

Hope this helps!

Hannah

3

Thank you, Hannah! Very helpful.