Pregnancy naturally causes changes in a woman’s body. Those changes involve putting more or different strains on the ligaments and joints, including the pelvis. Postural changes, weight gain and ligament laxity add pressure onto those joints which can potentially cause pain and discomfort. Up to 70% of women experience lumbo-pelvic pain during their pregnancy. 20% may still experience pain 18 months post-partum. The risk of development of pain increases with the number of previous deliveries.
Risk factors for developing back pain pre- and post-partum:
Heavy workload
Early onset of pain in pregnancy
Low mobility
Pregnancy shifts a woman’s centre of gravity which leads to additional pressure onto various joints and soft tissue. Those changes are:
Anterior pelvic tilt
Hyper-extended knees
Increased spinal curvatures
Forward rotation of the shoulders with forward head carriage (‘turtle neck’)
How can Chiropractic treatment help?
By using a wide variety of techniques to help deal with the increased stresses of pregnancy on the body. The treatments are very gentle and safe and are suitable for pregnant women. Your chiropractor will focus on the pelvis and the surrounding soft tissue which involves application of light pressure to alleviate tension and improve balance in the spine.
The treatment includes a combination of specific massage technique, joint manipulation and mobilisation as well as advice on lifestyle changes to take unnecessary pressure off the pelvis and the lower back. All recommendations are based on guidelines and research.
Chiropractic care in pregnancy is a safe and gentle way to promote comfort and minimise back pain during pregnancy.
If you would like to find out more about our clinic, or how we could help you, please do not hesitate to get in touch. You can use the contact us page of this website or phone 01452 309372.
