Did you know that somewhere between 50-80% of women experience back pain during pregnancy? As if morning sickness, swollen feet and food aversions weren’t enough why not add another one to the list?!
There are several factors that can contribute to the cause of pregnancy-related low back pain: weight gain, an increase if force through the lumbar spine, influence of the hormone relaxin, and changes to the mama-to-be’s center of gravity as the baby grows.
Pregnancy-related low back pain can start as early as the first trimester, but will typically begin around week 18. The pain often worsens as the pregnancy progresses and can disrupt daily activities, work and sleep. Although the pain usually resolves within a few weeks of delivery, some women may have persistent pain after childbirth. Factors that can affect postpartum low back pain include a history of low back pain prior to pregnancy, multiple pregnancies, heavy workloads and prior pelvic trauma.
Luckily, chiropractic care has been shown to be a safe and effective way to provide relief to the moms! Chiropractors use a variety of techniques that include soft tissue therapy, spinal manipulative therapy, postural modifications, education, exercises and supportive aids such as kinesiology tape.
Manual treatment during pregnancy is gentle and comfortable. Since there is laxity in the mother’s ligaments due to the hormone relaxin, adjusting is easy and low-impact. Pregnancy pillows are used so that the expecting mother and her growing belly can lay face down on the table- which turns out to be the best part of treatment for some moms, as they haven’t been able to safely lie on their belly throughout the span if their pregnancy!
Studies reveal that 75% of pregnant patients who seek chiropractic care throughout their term have decreased low back pain, a better quality of life and overall improved functions. These women are able to carry on with their daily activities with ease throughout their pregnancy and learn about ways to manage their symptoms on their own.
Stay tuned for more information on these techniques!
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