Chiropractic Care for Pregnant Women with Back Pain
During pregnancy, the body can suffer increased weight gain and shifted posture to accommodate the growth of a new baby. These changes can cause an incredible strain on the back and lower body, leading to pregnancy back pain. Chiropractic care is a less invasive alternative to pain relief medication for symptoms of back pain and discomfort.
Have a sore back while pregnant? At Orewa Chiropractic, each patient is carefully monitored to formulate a tailored management and treatment plan that is safe for both mother and child.
Why Do I Have a Sore Back During Pregnancy?
Up to 50% of women experience back pain during pregnancy. It is commonly caused by the increased weight of the foetus, around 10 or 15 kg, which strains the lumbar spine and shifts the mother’s centre of gravity. Hormones released during pregnancy to relax the pelvic joints (sacroiliac joints) in preparation for childbirth can also impact other muscles and ligaments in the body, causing them to weaken under the increased weight.
Breast tissues that become heavy and enlarged in preparation for milk production can also strain the muscles and spine. A change in the mother's posture can lead to headaches and pain in the back, neck, and between the shoulder blades.
The body experiences structural changes due to the baby’s rapid growth around the fifth month, which is when most symptoms (stiffness, aches, or soreness) develop. Pain can also sometimes worsen and radiate down the lower body, in a condition commonly known as sciatica. If not addressed early, minor symptoms can become debilitating or even cause permanent damage.
How to Manage Back Pain During Pregnancy
You can make several changes to your posture or routine to ease a sore back during pregnancy. Maintain a neutral posture when standing, sitting, or lying down to avoid putting too much stress on the upper and lower back. Ease back strain by placing a pillow between the knees when sleeping or behind the lumbar spine when sitting upright. A routine gentle activity like stretching the shoulders, neck, chest, hips, and legs, is also great for maintaining strength and flexibility of the muscles, joints, and spine.
See a Chiropractor for Sore Back Pain
Chiropractors specialise in spinal manipulations to relieve general body discomfort and acute or chronic pain from musculoskeletal disorders and injuries. With over 35 years of successful treatment cases handled by our experienced and friendly practitioners, Orewa Chiropractic is well-equipped to help you with a management and treatment plan. Contact us today.
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To book an appointment call us on 09 426 4545 or book online