Dr. Jeffrey I. Kennis,  D.C.
205 Commercial St Boston, MA 02109 NORTH END

( 617)720-2329


 

Daily stretching can be one of the best ways to alleviate radiating leg pain from a lumbar herniated disc. The following 3 stretches can help loosen your tight hamstring muscles for better lumbar spine support and reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve going down your leg. Just remember to stop if any exercise causes pain to worsen.

See Types of Sciatic Nerve Pain

Hamstring Stretch Seated

Seated hamstring stretch

This stretch is ideal for those with limited mobility or really tight hamstrings, as it is done in a seated position. To perform this stretch:

  • Sit at the front edge of a firm, straight-back chair with both feet on the ground, 3 to 6 inches apart.
  • Straighten one leg in front of you, with your heel on the ground and toes pointed at the ceiling.
  • Keeping your back straight, lean forward over the outstretched leg. You should feel the stretch in the back of your thighs.
  • Hold this position for 30 seconds, if possible. Then switch to the other leg.

Watch Seated Chair Hamstring Stretch for Sciatica Relief Video

To increase the stretch, prop your heel on a stool or second chair rather than the floor.

See Hamstring Stretching Exercises for Sciatica Pain Relief

 
Hamstring Stretch Towel

Towel hamstring stretch

If you prefer to stretch while lying down, the towel hamstring stretch may be a good option. To perform this stretch:

  • Lie on your back with your left leg flat on the ground and your right leg bent.
  • Tighten your abdominal muscles while slowly lifting your right leg.
  • Wrap a towel or yoga strap around the ball of your right foot. Hold the two ends of the strap with each hand.
  • Gently push your right heel toward the ceiling as you straighten out your right leg. Keep your left leg against the ground.
  • Once a stretch is felt, hold this position for 15 to 30 seconds.
  • Release your right leg back to its original position. Switch legs and repeat at least 3 times per leg.

Watch Supine Hamstring Stretch (Towel Hamstring Stretch) for Low Back Pain and Sciatica Relief Video

To make the stretch more comfortable, lie on a soft surface such as carpet or a yoga mat, or on a padded physical therapy table at your gym.

See Easy Exercise Program for Low Back Pain Relief

Standing Hamstring Stretch Video

A standing hamstring stretch can help alleviate radiating leg pain. Watch: Standing Hamstring Stretch for Low Back Pain Relief Video

Standing hamstring stretch

You can also stretch your hamstrings while standing.

  • Stand up straight with legs and feet together.
  • Engage your lower abdomen, drawing your belly button toward your spine.
  • Inhale to lengthen your spine, and as you exhale, fold forward from the hips, lowering down your torso. While folding forward, draw your shoulders away from your ears and keep your spine nice and long.
  • Place your hands at your hips or on the front of your thighs, avoiding pressing your hands into the tops of your knees. Keep your legs engaged to protect your knees.
  • Hold this stretch for 30 seconds.
  • Inhale and keep a flat back to come out of this stretch.

When doing any stretches, only go into the stretch as far as is comfortable for you—never stretch to the point of pain. Hamstrings can become quite stiff and tight over time, especially if you have pain secondary to a herniated disc. Start with gentle stretches, such as by holding for only 5 or 10 seconds, and gradually increase the stretches over time. For any pain that worsens or does not improve, see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis.

Learn more:

Specific Hamstring Stretches for Back Pain Relief

5 Little-Known Tips for Lumbar Herniated Disc Pain Relief

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