Pregnancy And Back Pain
Learning About The Connection Between Pregnancy And Back Pain.
By Jarrett Kruse
Back pain during pregnancy is common among pregnant women, and it’s not a secret why your back hurts during pregnancy. Carrying extra weight is among the common causes of back pain in general. Other causes of back pain during pregnancy include strain due to awkwardness of movement that increases as pregnancy progresses. Moving carefully, strengthening your muscles, and other standards of lower back pain prevention take on special significance for women who experience back aches during pregnancy. The role of exercise during pregnancy is critical to minimizing back pain. A pre-natal provider versed in treatment of back pain and pregnancy can guide you to proper care and exercise.
A majority of pregnant women experience back pain and some stage of pregnancy. Some experience it almost as soon as pregnancy begins, while in other women the pain increases as the pregnancy progresses. Most often, pain corresponds to weight gain as the coming baby grows. Additional causes include hormonal surges that can loosen the ligaments that support your back and a change in your center of gravity which can change your posture. Luckily you can do a number of things to avoid or minimize back pain during pregnancy:
- Strengthen you back and abdominal muscles through exercise. Your prenatal care provider can recommend appropriate exercises for you.
- Lift carefully. Squat—don’t bend when you pick something up.
- Avoid sleeping on your back.
- Avoid high heels or shoes that don’t offer support for your legs and back.
- Wear a support belt under your abdomen.
- Don’t let yourself get too fatigued. Get lots of rest.
If you are experiencing back pain, you may want to try one of these options:
- Use heat or ice on the affected area.
- Use a back brace or other support
- Visit a licensed chiropractor, massage therapist or acupuncturist.
- Speak to your prenatal care provider about appropriate medication
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