Evaluating the Efficacy of Exercise Therapy Versus Electrotherapy in Managing Pregnancy-Related Sciatica: Systemic Review

Sagar Gosavi, Pratiksha Rajpurohit

Abstract: Background: Pregnancy-induced sciatica affects a significant proportion of pregnant women, causing pain, discomfort, and functional limitations. Conservative management using non-pharmacological methods like exercise therapy and electrotherapy is recommended due to safety concerns during pregnancy. Objective: To review and compare the effectiveness of exercise therapy and electrotherapy in managing pregnancy-induced sciatica, based on recent scientific literature. Method: A narrative review of literature from 2018 to 2024 was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect. The review focused on randomized controlled trials, clinical studies, and guidelines pertaining to exercise and electrotherapy interventions in pregnant women with sciatica or low back pain. Results: Exercise therapy modalities such as glute bridges, core strengthening, and neural mobilization were found effective in reducing pain and improving function. Electrotherapy, especially Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS), showed promise in pain relief without adverse effects. Combined approaches showed better outcomes in some studies. Conclusion: Both exercise therapy and electrotherapy are effective for managing pregnancy-induced sciatica, with exercise therapy offering longer-term benefits. Further comparative trials are needed to establish a gold standard protocol.

Keywords: electrotherapy, exercise therapy, pregnancy, Sciatica