Pregnancy is a huge event in the life of many of our patients. Unfortunately, it has been synonymous with muscle and joint aches and pains for pregnant women everywhere. Up to 85% of all pregnancies have low back pain, with another 20% having pelvic girdle pain. Why is this? What can be done about this issue?
Why does being pregnant HURT so much?
One big reason points to the hormones of a pregnant patient. The body is undergoing a ton of changes and trying to accommodate for the baby. One of these changes is releasing a hormone called relaxin. Relaxin effects the ligaments which holds bones together and keeps them stable. This is a vital step in everyone’s pregnancy, but comes at the price of increasing the stress on joints and causing pain.
Another reason we can look to, is what happens with how the body is changing in the 2nd-3rd trimesters. Due to the weight of the baby, the pregnant patient has their center of gravity pulled forward toward their belly. This changes the curve in the lower back, and the mechanics of the whole pelvis, which causes pain in many people.
Where does Chiropractic come into Play?
We are in a great position to help with these issues that pop up throughout pregnancy. We can provide safe and effective treatment through adjustments and other manual therapies which have a myriad of benefits. Here are some listed below:
• Decreased probability of having meconium-stained amniotic fluid
• Decreased use of forceps during delivery
• Decreased likelihood of having a preterm delivery
• Decreased duration of labor
• Decreased blood pressure
• Decreased fluid overload
• Decreased sacroiliac dysfunction
• Decreased low back pain
• Decreased carpal tunnel symptoms
If you have been dealing with any of these things, give us a call. We would love to take care of you!
