Pregnancy is a transformative and exciting time in a woman’s life. However, it can also come with its own set of challenges, including back pain. The physical changes that occur during pregnancy, such as weight gain and hormonal shifts, can place extra stress on the body, leading to discomfort and pain in the lower back, hips, and pelvis.
In this blog post, our Stoke Chiropractor will discuss what factors can contribute to back pain during pregnancy and how visiting a chiropractor may help alleviate back pain during pregnancy.
What Can Cause Back Pain During Pregnancy?
Back pain is a common complaint during pregnancy, with studies estimating that up to 70% of pregnant women experience it at some point. There are several factors that can contribute to back pain during pregnancy, including:
- Weight gain: As the foetus grows, the mother’s weight increases, which can place extra pressure on the back and hips.
- Hormonal changes: During pregnancy, the body produces hormones, such as relaxin, which can cause the muscles, ligaments and joints to become more loose and relaxed. This can lead to instability in the pelvis and lower back.
- Changes in posture: As the baby grows, the mother’s center of gravity shifts forward, leading to changes in posture that can strain the back muscles.
- Stress and tension: Pregnancy can be a stressful time, and stress and tension can manifest as tightness in the back muscles, leading to pain and discomfort.
How Can Chiropractic Care Help Back Pain During Pregnancy?
Chiropractic care is a safe and effective way to manage back pain during pregnancy. Chiropractors are healthcare professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the musculoskeletal system. They use hands-on techniques, such as spinal manipulation and mobilization, to restore proper alignment and function to the joints and muscles.
Here are some of the ways chiropractic care can help alleviate back pain during pregnancy:
- Restoring proper alignment: As the baby grows and the mother’s body changes, the spine can become misaligned, leading to back pain. Chiropractic adjustments can help restore proper alignment to the spine, reducing pain and discomfort.
- Improving joint function: The hormones produced during pregnancy can cause the ligaments and joints to become lax and unstable, leading to pain and discomfort. Chiropractic adjustments can help improve joint function and stability, reducing pain and improving mobility.
- Relieving muscle tension: Chiropractic care can help relieve muscle tension in the back, hips, and pelvis, reducing pain and discomfort.
- Providing drug-free pain relief: Many women are hesitant to take medication during pregnancy, and chiropractic care provides a drug-free alternative for managing pain and discomfort.
- Preparing for labour and delivery: Chiropractic care can help prepare the body for labour and delivery by optimizing pelvic alignment and mobility.
What to Expect During a Chiropractic Visit
If you are experiencing back pain during pregnancy, you may be wondering what to expect during a chiropractic visit. During your first visit, the chiropractor will take a detailed medical history and perform a physical exam to determine the cause of your back pain. They may also perform X-rays or other diagnostic tests to get a better understanding of your condition.
Based on their findings, the chiropractor will develop a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs. This may include spinal adjustments, mobilisation techniques, massage and exercises to improve mobility and stability.
Other Steps To Help Manage Back Pain During Pregnancy
In addition to chiropractic care, pregnant women can also take other steps to manage back pain, including:
- Maintaining good posture: Sitting and standing with good posture can help reduce strain on the back muscles.
- Practicing prenatal yoga: Prenatal yoga can help improve flexibility and strength, reducing the risk of back pain.
- Using proper lifting techniques: Pregnant women should use proper lifting techniques, such as bending at the knees and keeping the back straight, to avoid back strain.
- Wearing supportive shoes: Wearing shoes with good arch support can help reduce strain on the back muscles.
In conclusion, back pain during pregnancy is a common complaint, but it doesn’t have to be a normal part of the pregnancy experience. Chiropractic care can be a safe and effective way to help manage back pain during pregnancy. However, it is important to remember that chiropractic care is just one part of a comprehensive approach to prenatal care. Women should also discuss their pregnancy symptoms with their healthcare team to ensure that they receive the best possible care for themselves and their baby.