Relief from back pain during pregnancy

Relief from back pain during pregnancy

Many women experience lower back pain during their pregnancy. Fortunately, there is a viable solution that offers pain relief. This article discusses why mechanical back pain occurs during pregnancy, some recent research on back pain during pregnancy, and a drug-free, non-surgical alternative method for relieving back pain in expectant mothers.

First, let's discuss the physical changes to the spine and pelvis as pregnancy progresses. As the fetus grows and enlarges, the mother's stomach protrudes and puts strain on the lower spine, called the lumbar spine. The bones of the lumbar spine are called vertebrae. Joints between the vertebrae of the lumbar spine are called facet joints. The facet joints experience increasing mechanical stress as a woman's pregnancy progresses.

Likewise, the bones of the pelvis may be misaligned, causing irritation of the joints and possibly a pinched sciatic nerve, a painful condition that causes radiating nerve pain in the leg.

A research study in the journalPain Management Nursing, June 2020Questionnaires completed by 400 expectant mothers showed that 75% experienced back pain at some point in their pregnancy, particularly in the lumbar region during the third trimester. Almost half of the women in this study (45%) reported that their back pain limited their daily activities. Obviously, back pain during pregnancy is a problem and a solution needs to be found.

Chiropractors often treat lower back pain resulting from pregnancy with a combination of manual therapies and specific exercises. Chiropractors use spinal adjustments to realign the joints of the lumbar spine and pelvis to help expectant mothers relieve pain. Chiropractic spinal adjustments are safe and gentle treatment methods.

One method of chiropractic, the Webster Technique, has been successful for decades in treating women during pregnancy. Dr. Larry Webster, a chiropractor, found that using a chiropractic treatment method he developed helped many women have a much more comfortable pregnancy and easier and quicker deliveries.

The Webster technique is now taught in the chiropractic profession and many chiropractors become certified after training in the technique and procedures. By conducting an online search or simply calling a chiropractor's office, you can easily find a chiropractor who is certified in the Webster Technique.

Many midwives, obstetricians, and obstetricians have observed the benefits that pregnant women receive for back pain relief through chiropractic care and recommend expectant mothers to seek chiropractic care. Women who want a healthy and comfortable pregnancy should seek out a chiropractor on their healthcare team for possible support.

Inspired by James Schofield