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Back Pain - Pregnancy
Back Pain - Pregnancy
Expecting? Back Pain?
Pregnancy, especially the later stages, is fertile ground for back pain.
Your center of gravity shifts because your uterus expands. And hormonal changes temporarily loosen
important support structures--ligaments and tendons leaving you with back and pelvis muscles that seem to
groan under the stress of increased weight. Up to 50% of pregnant women will experience back pain, which usually starts
during the third trimester and can last up to 6 months after delivery. There are three types of pregnancy-related back pain, which is largely
unavoidable. Some women experience a combination of the three: Lumbar pain Where? At the low back; pain may radiate to the legs.
When? As pregnancy progresses. Why? Posture changes associated with expanding uterus; overburdened spinal muscles; hormones
loosen joints and ligaments, which can cause pain. Sacroiliac pain Where? In the back of your pelvis and deep in your buttocks; pain
may radiate to the back of the thighs. When? As pregnancy progresses, sometimes after pregnancy. Why? Hormonal changes soften
ligaments, allowing joints in the pelvis area to stretch in preparation for labor. Night pain Where? In the low back. When? At night
when lying down. Why? The reason isn't known for sure, but it probably has to do with daylong stress. Your doctor can advise you
about minimizing discomfort. The following tips may help: Focus on posture: Try to keep your spine in a neutral position--neither
swaybacked nor flat. Wear flat or low-heeled shoes to reduce stress on your spine. Take breaks if you must stand for long periods.
Place one foot on a low stool if you stand or sit for long periods; it reduces back and pelvis stress. At night, lie on your side with pillows
supporting your uterus and between your thighs. If back pain interrupts your sleep or daily activities, you should talk to your doctor. Ice,
heat, massage therapy, and physical therapy visits are treatments he or she may consider. But check with your doctor before treating your
own symptoms--it's risky to take certain drugs, sit in a whirlpool, or undergo certain joint manipulation when you're pregnant. Many
doctors prescribe strengthening and flexibility exercises to reduce back pain. . If exercise and preventive measures aren't effective, your
doctor may advise other options such as pool exercises or a supervised exercise program
The information in this article is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not intended to replace the advice or attention of healthcare professionals
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