Back ache management in pregnancy

Emobileclinic Trending Issue: Backache in Pregnancy

Emobileclinic Specialist

 A pain, especially in the lumbar region of the back, usually caused by the strain of a muscle or ligament is envisaged during pregnancy. One of the most common symptoms of pregnancy is backaches, especially in the lower back. Most of this is attributed to the added weight that women gain while pregnant as well as the odd way in which that weight is distributed. As a woman gets closer to her due date, some of that back pain may also result from the baby placing pressure on the lower back as it grows.
Many pregnant women have achy backs as their bellies grow larger and their muscles and spine strain to carry those extra weights. During pregnancy, the body also produces the hormone relaxin, which helps prepare the body for childbirth. One of the effects of relaxin is the loosening of ligaments throughout the body, making pregnant women less stable and more prone to injury, especially in their backs.

 Here are some ways to help ease your back pain

• Try not to lift anything that weighs more than a few pounds.

•  Don’t bend down at the waist; instead, bend at your knees, squat down, and lift with your legs, not your back.

•  Don’t sit or stand for long periods. If you can’t get around it, use a box or stool to prop up one foot when standing or both feet when sitting.

•  Sit in ergonomic chairs with supportive backs or put a small pillow at the small of your back.

•  Stand up straight. Resist the urge to push your belly far forward.

•  Apply a warm towel, warm water bottle, or heating pad on the lowest setting.

•  Wear an abdominal support garment or maternity pants with wide elastic bands that fit under the belly.

•  Don’t wear high heels.

•  Get a firm mattress or put a board between your mattress and box spring.

•  Sleep on your side, with at least one knee bent.

•  Try using a pregnancy pillow to make sleeping more comfortable.

•  Get a gentle pregnancy massage if your doctor says it’s OK.

 Back pain also can be a sign of something else, like labor starting or a urinary tract infection. If you have any questions or concerns or severe pain or pain that is not getting better and any other additional symptoms, talk to your doctor.