Pregnancy brings enormous changes to your body—and for many women, lower back discomfort is one of them.
As your pregnancy progresses, changes in body weight, movement, sleep and activity can all influence how your lower back and pelvis feel.
Why Is Back Pain Common During Pregnancy?
There isn't usually one single cause.
Your growing abdomen gradually changes the load placed through your body and may alter the way you stand, walk, sit and perform everyday tasks.
Hormonal changes also occur throughout pregnancy and can influence connective tissues and joints.
Combine that with changing sleep positions, reduced exercise for some women and the physical demands of everyday life, and it's understandable that your back may begin to feel different.
Sleep Can Become Harder Too
As your belly grows, finding a comfortable sleeping position can become increasingly difficult.
Side sleeping with appropriate pillow support may help some women feel more comfortable.
A pillow between the knees or supporting the abdomen can also help reduce strain for some people.
Keep Moving Where Appropriate
Unless your healthcare provider has advised otherwise, staying active during pregnancy can be beneficial.
Walking, pregnancy-appropriate strength training, swimming and other comfortable forms of movement can help maintain strength and general conditioning.
What is appropriate will vary between pregnancies, so exercise should always be adapted to the individual.
Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy
Chiropractic care may be one conservative option for some pregnancy-related musculoskeletal complaints.
At Align & Restore Chiropractic in Strathmore, treatment is modified throughout pregnancy with positioning and techniques selected for comfort and individual needs.
We also have pregnancy pillows available so you can lie comfortably during treatment.
You Don't Have to Simply Put Up With It
Some aches and changes are common during pregnancy, but that doesn't mean every symptom should automatically be dismissed as “just pregnancy.”
If pain is significant, persistent or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, speak with your GP, obstetrician or other maternity healthcare provider.