PREVALENCE OF SCIATICA AMONGST PREGNANT WOMEN IN ABBOTTABAD: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Aim: Sciatica is a common peripheral neuropathy affecting pregnant women worldwide, characterized by pain, tingling, or numbness radiating down the leg due to sciatic nerve compression. Limited evidence exists regarding sciatica prevalence among pregnant women in Abbottabad. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of sciatica among pregnant women in Abbottabad. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Ayub Medical Complex and Safe Maternity Home Abbottabad over six months. A total of 384 pregnant women in their second and third trimesters, aged 18-45 years, were recruited using convenience sampling. Data were collected using the Sciatica Bothersomeness Index Questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 22. Women with diabetes, psychological disorders, or previous lumbosacral fracture/surgery were excluded. Results: Among 384 pregnant women surveyed, 112 (29.1%) had sciatica symptoms. The condition was more prevalent in the third trimester with 92 women (82.1%) compared to 20 women (17.9%) in the second trimester. Leg pain was reported by 120 participants (31.2%), numbness or tingling by 120 (31.2%), weakness by 121 (31.4%), and pain while sitting by 123 (32.2%). The mean age of participants was 28.8 ± 5.28 years. Limitations and Future Implications: The study was limited to two healthcare facilities in Abbottabad with a cross-sectional design preventing causal relationships establishment. Future longitudinal studies should explore risk factors and long-term outcomes of pregnancy-related sciatica. Originality: This is the first comprehensive study documenting sciatica prevalence specifically among pregnant women in Abbottabad, providing baseline data for healthcare planning and intervention strategies in the region.