Osteopathic treatment for back pain during pregnancy

Top tips how to help treat back pain during pregnancy

Are you pregnant and experiencing back pain? You are not alone. Around 50% of women will suffer from back pain during pregnancy. For some it will be mild; for others it can be incredibly uncomfortable, particularly when also trying to manage other pregnancy symptoms. 

So what causes it? And is it worth looking into osteopathic treatment for back pain during pregnancy?

Your body will experience many changes during the three stages of pregnancy. You will put on weight and retain water, putting pressure on your back and pelvis and shifting your centre of gravity, which places increased strain on these areas and can contribute to sciatic pain. The weight gain could also cause your muscles to tighten, resulting in discomfort in your upper and lower back. As your body prepares itself for labour, your ligaments will loosen and stretch, impacting on your posture and increasing strain on your joints. 

These changes are all very normal and should not cause you concern. However, if you are in discomfort, you could always opt for osteopathic treatment for back pain during pregnancy.

Ways to relieve the pain

Exercise

Staying active during pregnancy can minimise pain in the later stages. Low impact exercise such as yoga, pilates and aqua-exercises (high impact movements in water) are particularly beneficial as they can build muscles in your back, helping to improve posture, without exerting your body more than you should. 

Please remember that your body will produce increased levels of the hormone Relaxin whilst pregnant, making your body more flexible. Because of this it is easier to accidentally over-stretch your body so it is very important to be careful when exercising.

Stretches

By regularly stretching, you will both strengthen and loosen the muscles in your back, easing any back pain you may be suffering during pregnancy. 

Change the way you sleep

Are you finding it difficult to sleep because of back pain? There are a few sleeping positions that may make you more comfortable. Try putting a pillow between your legs or bend your knees as these can ease the pressure on your back. There are also a number of pregnancy pillows on the market, which are designed to offer support and relieve back pain. 

Osteopathy

Osteopathy uses a variety of physical manipulation techniques, stretching and massage to provide pain relief to joints, muscles and ligaments. We generally will use less robust techniques during pregnancy.

Osteopathic treatment for back pain during pregnancy will target problem areas, such as your back and sciatic nerve. It is safe, gentle and pain-free. 

Don’t suffer in silence. Parkstone Osteopaths is open and following all Government guidelines in regards to social distancing and hygiene. Please view our Coronavirus update. Please contact us today to discuss your needs and to book an appointment. 

We hope you found our article, ‘Osteopathic treatment for back pain during pregnancy’ of interest. We would be very happyto discuss any concerns or queries you may have.