Back pain during pregnancy is a very common problem. Three out of four women experience some degree of back pain during pregnancy.
For some women, symptoms may begin before they are showing and last throughout pregnancy. The cause of back pain during pregnancy is related to many factors: change in body posture, hormones that cause the relaxation of connective tissue in the body, poor body mechanics and muscle fatigue. The actual incidence of a pinched nerve during pregnancy is very rare.
So, how do you relieve and manage back pain during pregnancy?
Regular aerobic exercise and general conditioning exercise, such as walking, swimming, and bicycling, are the best methods. These types of exercises increase muscle tone and strength, improve endurance and decrease fatigue. Swimming and water aerobics are also excellent exercises for pregnant women. Frequent position changes, including stretching throughout the day, sleeping on your side with a pillow between your legs, and using proper posture and body mechanics are also important in maintaining a healthy back. Care should be taken to use the larger muscles of the legs and arms in moving objects to prevent muscle strain. You may strengthen your leg muscles by doing lunges and squats.
If you experience back pain, you may apply moist heat and/or cold packs as needed to decrease pain. You can wear a pregnancy support or SI (sacroiliac) belt to decrease pain and improve posture. Medications, including over-the-counter ones, should be taken only under the direction of your physician or health professional.
If you have persistent back pain, which interferes with your overall function, talk to your GP urgently.
One of the best methods in restoring function and self-sufficiency in persons with disabilities and pain is utilising Neuroskeletal Therapy, which is safe and gentle during pregnancy. Remember that most women who experience back pain during pregnancy do not have symptoms after delivery. Back strengthening exercises done throughout pregnancy will help you during labor and delivery and while caring for your growing infant after delivery.
Terry O'Brien
Back Trouble UK
Terry has been involved in General Medicine for over 20 years, he is a keen sports player and still turns out most Saturdays on the Rugby pitch, although his body wishes that he didn't!
Dragged up in Liverpool and supporting the BLUE half of Merseyside. Terry went on to study Medicine and initially serve in HM Forces, serving all over the world and completing just over 15 years service.
Terry launched Back Trouble UK, during 2007, however the Therapist Directory did not go online until January 2008. The main reason that Terry launched the website was so that people in the UK who were suffering from a Back Condition. Would have access to quality, clear, jargon free Back Pain Health Information, and online access to UK Registered Back Pain Practitioners. Other Sites: www.Back-Pain-Treatments.net & www.Sciatica-Treatments.co.uk
» left by Anonymous (1 year 213 days ago.)
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Serola SI Belt seems to be the best SI belt out there as far as quality, comfort, and price are considered. Check out their website for more: www dot serola dot net
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