back pain in pregnancy

Back pain in pregnancy is a very common problem in pregnant females. As pregnancy progresses, women tend to gain weight and therefore the episodes of back pain increase in number and severity.  

The weight of the growing baby shifts the center of gravity of body forward. This leads to forward rotation of pelvis and weakening of abdominal muscles. Overall the spinal alignment is distort which affects the posture of pregnant women. This change in posture leads to backache especially in women who already have a weak back.

Secondly, relaxin is an important hormone that is produced in pregnant females. Relaxin helps relax the pelvic ligaments and allow it to stretch for a normal delivery of child. This stretching effect of relaxin has been implicate in causing back discomfort in pregnant females.

STEPS TO PREVENT A PREGNANCY ASSOCIATED BACK PAIN

POSTURE CORRECTION

Maintain a good posture is vital to preventing back ache. One must desist from indulging in any activity that can cause back to hurt. The pregnant lady must always sit in chair with proper back support. While standing, special effort must be put to stand as straight as possible or a support belt can be worn.

PRECAUTIONS

Pregnant females should not bend all the way down to pick something up from floor. Rather, an attempt to squat, keeping the back straight.

REST

Rest is vital in preventing backache. Pregnant ladies should take good amount of sleep. While sleeping, they should lie on side with knees bent and pillows for support.

EXERCISES

Regular exercise strengthens the back muscles and improves flexibility. Walking, swimming and static cycling are safe for pregnant women. Specific exercises for back and pelvic floor must also help backache.

LOCAL MODALITIES

Applying heat to back at the painful spot can provide relief. This follows by a gentle massage with gel or oil. However, care must be taken to prevent accidental overheating and burns.

CONSULTATIONS

Prevention includes consulting a physiotherapist. A skilled physiotherapist will be able to effectively screen all the pregnant females and categorize them. On basis of: stage of pregnancy, specific medical problems, daily needs and presenting areas of pain.

WARNING SIGNS

However, backache in pregnant females associated with: spotting, fever, numbness or weakness of lower limbs or dull cramping nature, warrant an examination by attending gynecologist and should not be ignored.