Low back pain (plus sciatica) is a common occurrence in the pregnant population with as many as 70% of pregnant females reporting low back pain or sciatica at some point during their pregnancy.  Studies have shown that of these women who report back pain to their health care providers, only 15-30% of them receive treatment.

This is quite an alarming statistic as often times there are simple, straightforward exercises and tips on how to perform daily activities that can significantly help if not resolve this pain.

Why Do Women Experience Back Pain with Pregnancy?

• The body has to adapt to weight gain in different areas during pregnancy, which changes the demands on the joints and muscles when sitting, laying, and standing 
• The pelvis becomes more mobile to prepare for delivery, which is often a source of discomfort in the lower back and pelvic areas
• As the baby grows and there is more weight in the abdomen, a woman's posture changes the curve in her low back which becomes more and more exaggerated

If You are Pregnant, Tips to Decrease Pain:

• Sleeping
  • If sleeping on your side, sleep with a pillow between your knees and arms.  As your belly grows, you may also want to place a small pillow or rolled up towel under your belly for support.
  • When getting out of bed, log roll onto your side then let your legs hang off the side of the bed and push up to sitting.  This will stress your low back much less than sitting straight up.
     
• Lifting
  • Be sure to bend your knees and keep items close to your body when lifting.
  • If twisting, be sure to stand up straight with the item first and then twist – NEVER lift and twist at the same time.
     
• Holding your child
  • Make sure you alternate and hold your child on both sides (people often hold little ones on the same side/hip and this can be a source of pain).

Low back pain and/ or sciatica can be a problem before, during, and after pregnancy, but it does not need to be a way of life!  If you have any questions regarding the above information or how to minimize low back pain, during pregnancy, please call us to schedule a free consultation, so that we may help you.