Welcome to our Pregnancy & Chiropractic Page!
The American Pregnancy Association says that 50% to 70% of all women report experiencing lower back pain during pregnancy. Additionally, the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association says 20% of women “refrained from having another child because of fear the back pain would recur in another pregnancy.” With these statistics in mind, women going through a pregnancy should know a few simple tips that will keep neck and lower back pain away...chiropractic adjustments, diet, exercise and stretching!!
Pregnancy's effect on the body:
During pregnancy, a woman’s body undergoes a number of significant changes, including an enlarged uterus, changing center of gravity, and increased production of a hormone called relaxin. This process causes ligaments, the fibrous tissue that connects bone to bone or cartilage, to stretch, making joints less stable. Add a 25- to 35-pound weight gain as the baby grows, and the postural strain, aches, and pains in the back, abdomen, and hips can be a real source of discomfort.
Pregnant women benefit from a combination of gentle joint mobilization adjustments, massage therapeutic procedures and range-of-motion based exercises and stretches. This combination provides relief from the additional joint stress and strengthening of the weaker muscles in order to support movement throughout a woman’s pregnancy.
Pregnant women benefit from a combination of gentle joint mobilization adjustments, massage therapeutic procedures and range-of-motion based exercises and stretches. This combination provides relief from the additional joint stress and strengthening of the weaker muscles in order to support movement throughout a woman’s pregnancy.
Ways to Prevent lower back and neck pain during pregnancy:
AdjustmentsAdjustments during pregnancy help maintain a healthy and stable spine. Restrictions in joint and hip movement will lead to tight muscles that surround the spine and uterus. These restrictions of joint motion with tight muscles can be a big factor in causes of lower back pain and sciatica during your pregnancy. Restoring proper range of motion and muscle relaxation will create a healthy stable environment for the fetus and ensure a proper, more natural delivery.
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ExerciseCardiovascular exercise is an activity that increases the body’s heart rate for a sustained period of time. Activities such as Walking, Biking and Swimming are considered safe for most pregnant women and can be performed at mild to moderate intensity levels but not to the point of exhaustion. Strengthening various muscle groups, such as your abdominal muscles, back muscles, pelvic floor muscles, buttocks and thigh muscles can be effective in helping prevent and decrease back pain.
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StretchingWith or without back pain, stretching is one of the most important things you can do as a pregnant woman. Always include stretching as a vital part of your exercise routine. In order to improve flexibility and muscle endurance, it is recommended to perform stretches daily. The most common muscles that contribute to back pain during pregnancy are your back muscles, hamstring muscles, hip flexor muscles and neck muscles.
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Always consult with your medical or chiropractic physician before performing any type of physical activity or stretching during your pregnancy.