Relieving Back Pain During Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a special time in a woman’s life
but it can also be a very challenging and overwhelmingly time. Now to top that off, a study in the European spine Journal found that 71% of pregnant women will also experience back pain!
This is due to a number of causes. The most common being:
Hormonal Changes: There is a hormone called Relaxin and very much like its over complicated medical name suggests – its main purpose it to relax the ligaments so to prepare the body for childbirth. However, ligaments have a purpose – namely, to stabilise joints. When joint stability is affected – it can contribute to back pain. No matter how good this hormone is – it won’t relax the joint. Chiropractors however are great at that! Women who did see a Chiropractor not only experienced a 72% decrease in back pain but 70% of patients experienced an easier quicker labour compared to those not under Chiropractic care!
Weight Gain: As a pregnancy progresses, a woman’s weight increases (shocking, we know!). This puts additional strain on the spine and supporting muscles. Although every pregnancy is unique, the recommended weight gain range is 11.5 – 16kgs for women with a normal BMI. Our dieticians are well versed in women’s health and would be honoured to guide you during this process.
Postural changes + Muscle imbalances: A woman scenter of gravity will shift forward as a baby grows thus changing her posture (we have all seen the waddle of a 9-month pregnant woman). This is natural and normal but can lead to increased stress of back muscles and spine, resulting in comfort and pain. Biokinetiscits are great at identifying what is normal and what isn’t and then correcting those imbalances.
Stress: The one mark we all knew we were getting for any cause of any condition, STRESS! Pregnancy can be physically and emotionally demanding, leading to increased stress levels. Stress can then manifest in the body as muscle tension and pain! There are tons of resources for stress: mindful breathing, meditation, exercise, prenatal massage and Neurobalence are all safe during pregnancy!
Back to some states, of the 71% of women that suffer with back pain only 21% of pregnant women will seek help! Back pain in pregnancy may be common but it is not normal. Reach out – we are here for any questions you may have.
Be well.
Dr Enya
Supporting literature: Bernard, M. 2016; Fallon, J; Henderson, I.