Manage Back Pain during Pregnancy

Back pain is a common complaint of pregnant women. It is usually accompanied by joint pain, aching knees, stiff hips, and swollen ankles. Some pain is to be expected as your body naturally prepares for childbirth. The type and severity of joint pain varies depending on the stage of your pregnancy. 

If you are experiencing lower back or joint pain during pregnancy, contact The Back Clinic for treatment with a training physiotherapist.

Causes of back pain during pregnancy 

There are several contributing factors to the back and joint pain experienced during pregnancy. These include: 

• Hormone changes – During pregnancy, your body secretes hormones that prepare your body for growing a human being and giving birth. These hormones cause the ligaments and joints in the abdomen and pelvis to loosen and the internal structures, such as the ureters, to increase in size. 
• Change in posture – Pregnancy is only 8-9 months long, a relatively short period of time, and this means that a pregnant woman’s body must adapt very quickly as it changes. To accommodate for the growing fetus, the center of gravity shifts, posture changes and the abdominal walls weaken. This puts extra strain on the back and pelvic muscles.
• Gaining weight – Weight gain occurs throughout pregnancy, but most weight is gained in the second trimester. This rapid weight gain puts sudden and traumatic pressure on the back and joints.

Treatment for pain during pregnancy 

There are various ways to reduce your back pain during pregnancy. These include: 

• Stay active – Moderate exercise, such as walking or swimming, has been shown to help relieve back pain during pregnancy. Stretching can help relieve sore muscles.
• Get support – An abdominal support belt can help with lower back and pelvic pain by providing better support for the abdominal wall and muscles.
• Physiotherapy – A physiotherapist will use a variety of treatment options to relieve lower back pain, improve mobility of any stiff joints such as the back, neck, hips, lumbar spine or the sacroiliac joint (SIJ). As well as strengthening and relaxing core and pelvic muscles. Contact us for treatment.
• Keep pregnancy weight gain in check – Some weight gain is necessary, but excessive weight gain may increase the risk of a painful pregnancy and increase the risk of complications during and after delivery.
• Consult with your doctor – Every pregnancy is different and there are several factors that affect your health and the health of your unborn child. Consult your doctor or gynaecologist before changing your diet, taking medications, or making major lifestyle changes.