Pregnancy

Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy

The muscle strains and back pain of pregnancy can be more than just a nuisance. The average weight gain of 25 to 35 pounds, combined with the increased stress placed on the body by the baby, can sometimes result in severe discomfort. In fact, studies have found that about half of all expectant mothers will develop low back pain at some point during their pregnancy. This is especially true during late pregnancy, when the baby's head presses down on a woman's back, legs and buttocks, putting pressure on her sciatic nerve. And for those who already suffer from low back pain, the problem can become even worse.

During pregnancy, a woman's center of gravity begins to shift forward to the front of her pelvis and the displaced weight increases the stress on her joints. As the baby grows in size, the woman's weight is projected even farther forward and the curvature of her lower back is increased, placing extra stress on her spine in that area. As a result, the spine in the upper back must compensate - and the normal curvature of her upper spine increases as well.

To combat this, during pregnancy, hormones are released that help loosen the ligaments attached to the pelvic bones. But even these natural changes designed to accommodate the growing baby can result in postural imbalances, causing pregnant women to be more prone to awkward trips and falls.

   

 

How Chiropractic Care Helps

Chiropractic care is a good alternative to over-the-counter and prescription drugs for back pain. Since a chiropractor manipulates the spine to ease back pain, there is no medication involved, making it a safe and more natural form of relief. There are many studies have found there to be little risk to both mother and fetus when a trained professional does spinal manipulation. 

After your pregnancy, your chiropractor can treat you to help ensure that your stretched out joints and loosened ligaments get back into their proper places. Chiropractic care may also help relieve some headaches, shoulder problems and muscle and rib discomfort caused by your changing body.

 

 

 

Is Chiropractic Care safe during pregnancy?

Chiropractic care is safe during pregnancy when provided by a doctor that has been trained in the physical changes that occur within a pregnant woman's body. Chiropractors that have been trained to work with pregnant women will use tables that adjust for a pregnant woman's body and they will use techniques that avoid unneeded pressure on the abdomen. A doctor who is versed in the needs of women who are pregnant will also provide you with exercises and stretches that are safe to use during pregnancy and compliment any adjustments made to your spine.

 

                                                                                                                                  
Tips for Pregnancy

 

Exercise. Not only does exercise help you from gaining too much weight during your pregnancy, it also helps strengthen your muscles and prevent or relieve any discomfort you might experience. Exercising just three times a week can make a big difference in how you feel. Walking, swimming, yoga and using a stationary bike are all excellent forms of exercise for pregnant women. Prenatal yoga classes, especially, can help relieve back tension. Always stop exercise if you feel dizzy, weak, nauseous, have blurred vision or vaginal bleeding.

Proper Shoes. High heels may make your legs look great but they wreak havoc on your back and posture. During pregnancy, the last thing you want is to exacerbate a backache so wear flat, comfortable shoes as often as you can. If you do have to wear high heels, go for a low heel rather than your favorite stilettos.

Lift Properly. Whenever you are lifting a heavy object always bend from the knees, not your waist. If you can, try to avoid lifting heavy objects all together when you’re pregnant.

At Work. If you spend most of your day sitting in front of a computer, make sure your workstation is ergonomically correct. The top of your computer monitor should be no higher than eye level. Also, be sure to put your feet up on a small footrest periodically to relieve the pressure in your legs and feet. If you can, try to stretch your legs by taking short walks around the office every half hour or so.

At Home. Get lots of rest! Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Sit down and put your feet up whenever you can. If you feel tired then take a nap. When you are sleeping, it is a good idea to lie on your side and place a pillow between your legs. This helps to take the pressure off of your lower back. A body pillow is very popular with many pregnant women and can be used after the baby is born to make breastfeeding more comfortable