Back Pain in Pregnancy
Back pain is accepted by many to be a normal part of pregnancy. There are multiple factors that contribute to the increased susceptibility of women to back pain during pregnancy. At Liverpool Physio we have a team experienced, specialist physiotherapists who can make a positive difference to how you manage that pain. We can help you work toward a return to normal pain free daily activity, so you can enjoy your pregnancy.
What causes Back Pain in Pregnancy?
There are multiple changes taking place within the body of a pregnant women. Some of these changes, although perfectly normal, lead to increased pressure and strain on the structures of the lower back. Some of the causes include the following:
- Release of hormones can cause ligaments supporting the spine to loosen.
- Muscle separation down the centre of the Rectus Abdominis over the period of pregnancy can put extra strain on the lumber spine.
- Weight Gain around the abdomen from baby growth adds additional load to the spine.
- Postural changes as your centre of gravity alters with the growth of the baby.
- Muscle tension can rise in relation stress experienced at the different stages of pregnancy.
- Muscle fatigue can cause muscle imbalances affecting posture and flexibility.
- Increased internal pressure on blood vessels and nerves in the back and pelvis.
Above: Specialist treatment to help manage musculoskeletal pains during pregnancy.What are the symptoms of Back Pain in Pregnancy?
Some of the symptoms associated with back pain during pregnancy include:
- Lumbar pain - Experienced in the centre of your lower back.
- Pelvic pain - Experienced as deep pain below the rear waistline.
- Pain onset usually occurs in the latter half of pregnancy, after the fifth month.
- Pain increases with prolonged standing, sitting or lifting activities.
- Pain lessens with rest and postural correction.
What should I do if I have Back Pain in Pregnancy?
The vast majority of pregnant women will experience back pain at some stage during their pregnancy. This can be managed with simple techniques and activity modification. Your GP may prescribe medication.
However, our specialist physiotherapists can tailor treatments based on a comprehensive examination to address your specific needs. This could help reduce the necessity for medication based pain relief, whilst bringing broader health benefits and lasting relief from pain.
If you suffer from any of the above symptoms of pregnancy related back pain you could benefit from an assessment from one of our physiotherapists. To arrange an appointment please email office@liverpoolphysio.co.uk or call 0151 558007.
Above: Our therpaist providing some stretching exercises to offload the pressure on the spine during pregnancy.What would a physiotherapy assessment for Back Pain in Pregnancy involve?
Your first appointment at Liverpool Physio would include a comprehensive assessment. Our specialist physiotherapists will split this into two parts:
Subjective
A discussion between you and our physiotherapist to gain information on when your symptoms started, and how they are causing you problems in your active daily lifestyle.
Objective
Taking into consideration your current pain, an assessment of your range of movement, sensations, muscle strength and ability to carry out functional tasks such as walking, transferring from lying to sitting and sitting to standing, reaching and more.
What would physiotherapy treatment for Back Pain in Pregnancy involve?
Some examples of what your follow up treatment sessions might include are:
After an X-ray to confirm the broken bone is healing, our physiotherapists can work with you using the following interventions and more to increase your back mobility and help you return to your usual mobility.
- Targeted joint stability exercises
- Yoga or Pilates based exercises
- Soft tissue massage
- Strengthening
- Posture advice
- Advice on seeing your doctor for pain relief
- Stretching and joint mobilisation
- Kinesio taping
- Hydrotherapy
- Activity modification advice
Pilates is an ideal form of exercise before, during and after pregnancy to adapt to your changing body. Benefits of Pilates for pre and post-natal women include:
- Improved posture
- Retrained deep abdominal muscles
- Reduced low back pain
- Continued exercising during and after pregnancy
- Improved relaxation skills
- Reduced risk of incontinence
- Possible prevention of sciatic nerve pain
At Liverpool Physio, we pride on making every treatment session personal to your needs. Our physiotherapists will ensure your treatment meets your aims.
How can I arrange a physiotherapy assessment for Pregnancy related Back Pain?
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms of back pain, you will benefit from being assessed by one of our specialist physiotherapists.
For more information about how Physiotherapy can help treat back pain during pregnancy, or to book an appointment, please email office@liverpoolphysio.co.uk or call 0151 558 007.
Summary
Back pain can be an issue at any time of life, but especially during pregnancy where it adds stress and discomfort to daily tasks. Weather your symptoms are mild or severe our experienced physiotherapists will be able to help alleviate your pain and get you back to enjoying one of the most important events in your life.
At Liverpool Physio we want to ensure you get the best treatment for your condition and we will use a range of treatments that may include exercises, massage and advice to ensure you are relieved of your symptoms.
For further information about how Physiotherapy can help treat back pain during pregnancy, or to book yourself an appointment, please email office@liverpoolphysio.co.uk or ring us on0151 558 0077.
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