
The changes your body experiences during pregnancy has varying effects on the body. 50 to 70 percent of women experience back pain at some point in their pregnancy, with the frequency of the occurrences increasing during the last trimester. Outside of medication, what can be done to help women find pregnancy back pain relief?
What is Pregnancy Back Pain?
The source of most pregnancy-related back pain is within the sacroiliac joint, the place where the pelvis and spine meet. Some register the pain as a dull ache, while others can feel sharp pains radiating out from their pelvis. Here are the most common causes of stress which leads to back discomfort for pregnant women.
- Increased Weight — Most women gain an average of 25-35 pounds throughout their pregnancy. Supporting that weight along with that of the baby leads to strain on the lower back.
- Changes in Posture — Because pregnancy shifts your center of gravity, your posture changes as you adjust your stance and movements, leading to additional stress on your back.
- Hormones — Your body releases a hormone called relaxin during pregnancy, which causes the ligaments in your pelvis to loosen in preparation for your upcoming birth. Those same hormones affect ligaments in your back, leading to instability and discomfort in that area.
- Stress — Mental and emotional strain experienced during your pregnancy can cause increased tension throughout your body. That can lead to an increase in the intensity of lower back pain.
How Does Pregnancy Back Pain Affect Women?
Women dealing with back pain while pregnant often find it challenging to complete everyday household chores like making up beds, vacuuming, or doing anything requiring lifting. Pregnant women can find it difficult to sit or lie in one position for longer than a few minutes.
The discomfort can carry over to the workplace, making it difficult to complete their assigned tasks. Back pain also causes many women to sleep poorly. The resulting exhaustion also contributes to poor quality of life during their pregnancy.
How Can Chiropractic Services Help With Pregnancy Back Pain?
The staff at Wright Start Chiropractic strives to help patients find safe, effective pregnancy back pain relief. Our goal is to help you get through your pregnancy while experiencing little to no back pain. The treatments we provide can also provide relief from tension headaches and even make the delivery process more comfortable.
At Wright Start Chiropractic we do a thorough physical evaluation that doesn’t involve x-rays that might be harmful to you or your baby. We then come up with a gentle treatment plan to maintain during your pregnancy.
One of the treatments we offer is a pregnancy pillow that makes it possible for you to lie facedown without putting pressure on the baby. You’ll be amazed at the relief it provides and how it helps improve your current physical condition.
What Do Patient’s Gain by Getting Chiropractic Care for Pregnancy Back Pain?
Patients gain the opportunity to continue normal life functions. That means not being too tired to go to work or tidy up around your home. You can once again get a good night’s sleep and feel prepared to face the next day without worrying about pain starting up first thing in the morning.
Pregnancy back pain doesn’t have to be something you learn to suffer through. Having the guidance of a professional chiropractor can make a world of difference. Call us today or complete our online form to set up an appointment.
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Call (925) 757-3309 or complete the form below to book your appointment today.