During pregnancy, the ligaments in your body naturally become softer and stretch to prepare you for labour. This can put a strain on the joints of your lower back and pelvis, which can cause backache.
Women experience an increase in lumbar curving during pregnancy due to the increased weight being carried out in front. This puts more pressure on some of the joints of the spine, causing discomfort and, for some women, pain. Essentially, the centre of gravity has been moved and, even after giving birth, problems caused as a result of irritated joints and nerves can take a while to resolve. Helpful exercises include: ‘cat stretches’ and lying on the back and bringing knees towards the chest either side of bump for as far as is comfortable. Sleeping with a pillow between the legs may help too.
Ways to Avoiding backache in pregnancy
There are several things you can do to help prevent backache from happening, and to help you cope with an aching back if it does occur. The tips listed here can help you to protect your back – try to remember them every day:
Avoid lifting heavy objects
Bend your knees and keep your back straight when lifting or picking up something from the floor
Move your feet when turning round to avoid twisting your spine
Wear flat shoes as these allow your weight to be evenly distributed
Work at a surface high enough to prevent you stooping
Sit with your back straight and well supported
Make sure you get enough rest, particularly later in pregnancy
If you are pregnant, one of the best things you can do for you and your baby is to see a Chiropractor. A pregnant woman needs to have her body as healthy and strong as possible in order to handle the rigours of pregnancy and childbirth. A Chiropractor will examine your spine for spinal distortions known as subluxations. If subluxations are found in your body, they will correct them with a gentle low-force adjustment. For more information about how Dr. Ben can help you during pregnancy then take a look at a previous blog of ours here: Essential Care During Pregnancy (link to old blog)
If you would like to get in touch to find out how chiropractic care can help you during pregnancy, call us on 021 487 8465. You can also connect with us on Facebook and Twitter!
