• Chiropractic During Pregnancy •
Pregnancy can be a real pain in the back!
Pregnancy should be one of life’s greatest experiences but unfortunately the increased spinal stress that occurs as the baby develops sometimes means that it can be dominated by lower back pain.
Recent studies have indicated that over 70% of expectant mums will experience lower back pain especially during the later stages of the pregnancy.
The average weight gain during pregnancy is between 8 and 20 kg which can often lead to severe discomfort. The extra stress placed on the body can affect the lower back as well as the middle back and neck.
Other difficulties that can be caused by these changes include aching limbs, Headaches, sciatica, shortness of breath, dizziness and fatigue.
How does your Posture Change During Pregnancy?
As the pregnancy progresses there is an increase in the curve of the lower back, this puts pressure on the pelvic (sacroiliac) joints and lower back which can cause back pain, muscle fatigue or sciatica.
There is also an increase in the thoracic curve that can cause difficulty in breathing and poor digestion, as well as rib and middle back pain. Headaches, neck stiffness and arm pain can also occur from these changes.
What types of Back Pain occur during Pregnancy?
There are two common types of back pain which pregnant women may experience:
Lower back pain: This can be extremely problematic for pregnant women and simple tasks can become very stressful. The pain typically intensifies with activities such as long periods of sitting or standing. Any lifting or bending should be avoided if it intensifies your back or neck pain.
Posterior pelvic pain: This type of pelvic pain is four times more prevalent than lumbar pain during pregnancy. It is a deep pain, felt below and to the side of the waistline and across the tailbone. It can occur on one or both sides and can often be associated with pubic pain.
Both types of pain are aggravated by twisting, standing up, sitting down, lifting or bending forward. Other aggravating factors are work stresses such as sitting at a computer or leaning forward for extended periods, weight gain, loss of normal spinal movement and muscular balance.
How can you Prevent Low Back Pain During Your Pregnancy?
Exercise is an important part of the process and should be added to your schedule at least three times a week. It is important to strengthen core muscles and your pelvic floor to stabilise your pelvis and low back.
Sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees will take the pressure off your lower back and is extremely helpful and full-length body pillows are also recommended to ease backache.
If you have to sit at a computer for long hours make sure that your workstation is ergonomically sound to maximise comfort and support.
How Can Chiropractic Help Back Pain During Pregnancy?
Chiropractic treatment is an extremely safe and effective means of treating the mother without placing any risk to the baby. It can be helpful right up until the day of delivery to provide relief to any low back pain issues.
Scientific research by Dr Joan Fallon showed that regular chiropractic care during pregnancy helps maintain uterine ligament flexibility and pelvic balance and may significantly reduced labour time. 84% of expectant mothers who have had spinal manipulation while pregnant reported subsequent pain relief from the treatment.
Another study comparing mothers who received chiropractic care with those who didn’t found that first-time mothers averaged 24% shorter labour times when having chiropractic care. For mothers having their second child, the study concluded that the duration was 39% shorter.
Chiropractic care can maintain a healthier and happier pregnancy by improving pelvic balance, alignment and flexibility, decreasing the time of labour and providing a more comfortable pregnancy.
Our Family Chiros Will Care For Every Stage of Your Pregnancy
Our chiropractors can also offer nutrition, ergonomic and exercise advice to expecting mums during every stage of their pregnancy.
Once the baby is born our expert chiropractic care can help return mum’s body back to normal, for more information contact us now.
