Here at Mason Family Chiropractic, we offer a variety of care including pregnancy pain treatment in Ipswich. Pregnancy can put a lot of stress on the body including changing your posture, putting pressure on the pelvis and even sciatica. Chiropractors are trained to treat women during pregnancy, and I have undergone further training since I graduated, ten years ago. Helping people through pregnancy can be such a rewarding thing to do, and I do love seeing the great results we often get.
What pain is common during pregnancy?
Neck pain, headaches, low back pain and sciatica are all very common during pregnancy. This generally occurs more towards the end of your term but can be very early on. You are always more likely to suffer with low back pain or sciatica during pregnancy if you have suffered previously. Ensuring the back is functioning as well as possible before conception can be very useful and reduce pain during pregnancy.
Why is pain common during pregnancy?
Pain during pregnancy is common for a few different reasons. The two biggest reasons are pregnancy posture and hormones affecting the pelvis.
Pregnancy posture
A big reason are the changes that occur on your posture. Your body naturally reacts to the additional weight of the baby. This tends to result in a traditional swayback posture. This is more likely if you already have a swayback posture prior to pregnancy, and if you have weakness within the muscles of the low back and pelvis. (Check out this blog on my favourite exercises during pregnancy which can help with this exact issue.) This swayback posture causes increased pressure on the joints in the low back as well as more stress on the muscles through the upper back and neck. As the pregnancy progresses, the baby gets bigger and this changes the posture further, potentially resulting in
more pain.
Hormones affecting the pelvis
Hormones are released during pregnancy to help prepare the body for birth. This can sometimes result in joints that move a little too much causing some instability. This can lead to pain in the ligaments as well as muscular compensation. This is what is typically called ‘pelvic pain’. This can sometimes be simple low back pain, pain at the front of the pelvis and even a sciatic-type pain into the leg. Pain at the front of the pelvis can also be referred to as symphysis pubic dysfunction or SPD.
What treatment can help pregnancy pain?
Chiropractic treatment can help with pregnancy pain. This is by identifying the cause and managing it in the best way. With posture related issues this is about restoring movement to the joints, relaxing the muscles down and strengthening the right muscles to help reduce the stress. With pelvic issues it is about restoring the balance and addressing any signs of instability. Advice and ergonomics can be essential also, so that people can continue their normal lives as much as they wish to up until birth.
Is Chiropractic treatment during pregnancy safe?
Chiropractic treatment during pregnancy is safe. We alter our treatments when needed to reduce stress on mother and baby. We also have a very comfortable pregnancy pillow to allow for certain treatments. Chiropractors are also trained to identify issues where treatment would not be appropriate or where it is best to refer to another practitioner. Some of our treatment options we elect not to use to be extra cautious. You and your baby will always be put first with regards to your care.
If you would like to book an appointment or would like to discuss with me as to whether I may be able to help, feel free to book a consultation or complimentary chat here.
Yours in health,
Mykel Mason DC LRCC MChiro
Ipswich Chiropractor