Yoga Poses for Sciatica

The Mayo Clinic defines sciatica as a pain running from your back, down your buttocks and into your leg along the path of the sciatic nerve. Sciatica is most often caused by a herniated disk. Most cases can be resolved with self-care, which includes exercises to improve posture, strengthen supporting back muscles and improve flexibility. And, according to the article "Easy Rider" by Matthew Solan in the August 2006 issue of "Yoga Journal," yoga can be used to help manage and relieve sciatica.

Eagle Pose

According to "Yoga Journal," the eagle pose is therapy for sciatica. "Yoga Anatomy" states that performing this pose will strengthen your gluteus medius and minimus, or "glutes," and hip adductors, or groin. Stand up straight with your feet together and arms at your side in what's called the "mountain" pose. Then draw your right leg to the side slightly raised off the ground. Cross you right leg over the top of your left and tuck your right foot behind your left calf. At the same time, bend the supporting leg and throw your hips back, like you're about to sit on a chair. Then cross your left arm underneath your right, placing your palms together. Repeat with the opposite legs.

Half Lord of the Fishes Pose

According to "Yoga Anatomy," the spinal rotation in the half lord of the fishes pose helps to lengthen as well as strengthen many muscles along the spine. Also, "Yoga Journal" lists it as having a therapeutic application for sciatica, stating it energizes the spine.
Start this pose seated in a cross-legged position. Place your right foot on the outside of your left leg, resting it on the floor near your thigh. Ensure that both sit bones are on the ground and that your right knee is pointing towards the ceiling. Then place your left elbow on the outside of your right leg, and place your right hand on the floor behind you. Turn your head to look towards the back wall and use your left arm to increase the twist in your lower back. Repeat on the other side.

Half Moon Pose

"Yoga Journal" states that benefits of the half moon pose include strengthening the thighs, buttocks and spine, as well as stretching the groin and hamstrings. It also states that this pose is therapy for sciatica.
Start this pose in a deep lunge with your hips square to the side wall and arms extending out from the shoulders. This starting position is also called Warrior II. Reach forward and touch your front hand onto the floor in front you. Gently kick your back leg off the ground and straighten the front knee. If you started with the right leg in front, you will now be balancing on only your right arm and leg. The left arm is extended to the ceiling and the back leg is parallel with the floor. Make sure to maintain a neutral curve in your lower back. Repeat on the other side.