Carrying a child is not easy and may have several consequences on your body. One of the most common discomforts that many women face is low back pain. This is because your lower back supports most of your upper body weight and when you are carrying additional weight, it creates more stress and strain on the lower back region.
However, there are several ways to take care of back pain during pregnancy. Most of these are non-invasive in nature i.e. you don’t have to take any additional medicines or undergo medical treatments to relieve the symptoms. A few precautions and practicing the right habits can go a long way in reducing backache in pregnant women.
Certain natural therapies such as chiropractic adjustments are also extremely helpful in assuaging back pain during pregnancy.
Practice the Right Posture
During your pregnancy, it is important to practise the right posture while sitting, standing and walking. As the baby grows inside you, your centre of gravity tends to shift forward due to your increasing baby bump. To compensate, most women tend to lean a bit backward, which puts further strain on your lower back.
To maintain the right posture that puts less pressure on the lower back, always stand and walk tall and straight.
Even while sitting, try to maintain a straight spine and keep the shoulders relaxed. Place a cushion to provide further support to the lower back region. If you have to sit in one place for long hours, place your feet on a low step stool and take frequent breaks for short walks.
Use the Right Gear
Clothes and shoes also play a vital part in relieving back pain in pregnant women. Avoid wearing flat shoes such as thongs. Instead, wear shoes with a good arch and sole for support. High heels are a strict no-no as these tend to shift your body’s balance further forward, making you susceptible to a fall.
Don’t wear clothes that are too tight or constrict easy movement of the hip and back region. You may want to show off your baby bump, but tight fitting clothes could lead to more backaches.
Include Physical Activities
Contrary to the belief, light and safe workouts actually keep you fit, flexible and healthy throughout your pregnancy period. Regular exercise when done under the right guidance can strengthen your back and increase its ability to support the increasing weight. Some low-intensity workouts that are effective in relieving back pain include light walking, swimming and stretching moves.
Consider Chiropractic
Chiropractic adjustments have long proven to be one of the best ways of relieving back pain in a totally natural manner. It is a form of alternative treatment that does not use any drugs. In fact, studies have shown that regular chiropractic treatment can help in reducing back pain in pregnant women by about 85%.
Chiropractic is especially helpful for women who are in their third trimester. When you want to enjoy your pregnancy without backaches, consult an expert chiropractor.