Kiddipedia
Pregnancy represents one of the most magical times in the life of any woman. While the miracle of birth cannot be denied, it is also an unfortunate fact that many women will suffer from a handful of unwanted side effects. One common issue involves mild to severe back pain.
In this article we’ll look at how pregnancy affects the posture of your lower back. We’ll review when it commonly begins, how long it lasts, are any women at a greater risk of experiencing back pain, what are some of the warning signs that something more serious is the cause and what treatment options are available. So let’s have a closer look.
The Basics
It is estimated that between 50 and 80 per cent of women will experience some type of back pain during pregnancy. The symptoms themselves can also vary. These range from mild pains when performing specific activities (such as bending over to pick up an item) to acute severe situations that might become chronic over time.
Back pain can occur as early as eight weeks after becoming pregnant although it is more likely to develop between the fifth and seventh month. Of course, the severity of your back pain can depend on several factors.
Who is More at Risk?
Experts have found that some women may be more prone to this type of pain than others. Those who already have issues with their lower backs can be likely to experience more severe symptoms. These symptoms may occur earlier in their pregnancy and they could become chronic. Those who are overweight are likewise at a higher risk of developing pain in the lower back.
How Does Pregnancy Affect the Lower Back?
Most women who become pregnant will gain between 12-16 kgs. Of course, the spinal and the surrounding muscles will have to support this extra weight. This can lead to pain in and around the lower back. Another interesting point is that the uterus and the baby itself may place pressure upon the nerves found around the pelvis and the lower lumbar region; increasing the chances of developing back pain and/or sciatica.
Another issue to highlight involves posture. Due to the weight chances mentioned above, a woman’s centre of gravity naturally shifts. Some of shifts may be unconscious modifications made by the body. Although this can be a relatively gradual process, it can still lead to increased pressure on the joints at the bottom of the spine, leading to inflammation and pain.
Hormones can also play an important role. Women who become pregnant produce a substance known as “relaxin”. The main intention of this hormone is to cause the ligaments around the pelvis to become more relaxed (aiding during the process of childbirth). Unfortunately, this very same substance can sometimes cause supporting connective tissues around the spine to become looser. This may lead to pain and discomfort.
During the latter stages of pregnancy, the uterus will begin to expand. This affects the muscles located between the pubic bone and the rib cage (known as the rectal abdominis). There can be instances when these muscles slightly separate along their centre line. As they become weaker, a greater amount of strain could be placed upon the lower back.
Finally, stress can play an important role. This may cause the muscles in the lower back to become noticeably tighter. This is also why greater levels of back pain may be observed during heightened periods of stress.
What are the Warning Signs That a More Serious Issue May be Present?
There are several warning signs which could indicate that you are suffering from more than back pain alone. Be sure to keep an eye out for any of these symptoms:
- Pain that becomes progressively worse or that is accompanied by a fever.
- Feelings of weakness or a lack of coordination.
- Numbness or tingling in one or both legs.
- Incontinence or a loss of feeling around the genital area.
- Pain associated with the second or third trimester (possibly indicating preterm labour).
- Acute pain beneath the rib cage on one or both sides. This could be a warning sign that a kidney infection has developed.
- Vaginal bleeding
Targeted Treatment Options
Thankfully, physiotherapists are often able to treat back pain that results from pregnancy. This will primarily depend upon getting to the root of the problem in question. One excellent approach is regular exercise, as this can help to strengthen the muscles around the spine while enhancing flexibility.
Alternating between hot and cold compresses to the low back may provide temporary relief (15 mins each for 30-60 mins). Cold compresses are generally utilised first and after a few days, heat can be utilised. However, never apply heat directly to the abdomen.
Physiotherapists can also provide postural advice in the event that this is causing the discomfort. Other methods such as avoiding slouching, performing specific stretches, sitting up straight, and using support belts can offer welcome results.
A trained professional might also choose to perform manipulation. These are generally safe during pregnancy and they can often represent a welcome alternatives to prescription medications.
In the event that lower back pain is related to emotional stress, there can be times when counselling will offer viable results.
Lower Back Pain During Pregnancy: More Than Meets the Eye
We can now see that there are many reasons why women may experience lower back pain during their pregnancy. Speaking with a trained physiotherapist is the best way to encounter a much-needed sense of relief.
Matthew Holmes is the Clinical Director at Focal Allied Health, whose services include physiotherapy treatments for back pain and other common musculoskeletal conditions.
