Pregnancy can be such an incredible and enjoyable experience, but it’s also common for expectant mothers to experience pain and discomfort during this time. The female body goes through enormous physical, chemical and emotional changes during pregnancy which all take their toll whilst also exacerbating pre-existing musculoskeletal niggles. During pregnancy the body carries up to 20lbs of extra weight. Adapting to a new centre of gravity and posture in a relatively short period of time can impose great physical strain on joints and soft tissues. In addition, hormones produced in later pregnancy to prepare the pelvis for childbirth (by making ligaments more flexible) also make the other joints of the body more prone to strain. This can result in aches and pains, commonly around the lower back, pelvis and hips.
Osteopathic treatment can be hugely beneficial during pregnancy…
Osteopaths have been helping and treating expectant mothers for years and are practiced at using their skills to help relieve aches and pains during and after pregnancy. Osteopathy is the perfect drug-free option, offering natural, gentle, hands-on-treatment to help your body accommodate the changes taking place, thus taking the strain off problem areas allowing you to enjoy a more comfortable pregnancy.
Osteopathic treatment can ease associated symptoms, including:
• Back pain and sciatica
• Neck and shoulder pain
• Muscular tension
• Groin and hip pain, pelvic and sacroiliac pain
• Lower abdominal pain or pubic symphysis pain (SPD)
Using gentle techniques, osteopathic care can help restore balance and improve the movement and flexibility of the spine and pelvic girdle. Treatment involves various gentle techniques including soft tissue work, mobilisation and stretching of joints. You may also be given simple home exercises and back care advice.
Your Osteopath can:
- Provide advice on positioning, stretches and exercises you can do to maintain your health and wellbeing throughout your pregnancy
- Minimise imbalances within the pelvis to help contribute to an easier labour
- Provide treatment after delivery to help your body recover from pregnancy and labour and the cope with the strains of new motherhood
The treatment is gentle and safe and can be administered in almost any position you find comfortable.
If you would like to find out how osteopathic treatment could help you, contact us on 01234 823621 or reception@northbedsosteos.co.uk