Is Chiropractic suitable for pregnant women?

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Your body undergoes a lot of changes throughout pregnancy, as you gain weight especially in the abdomen, this exerts a downward and forward force on the lower back. This extra weight combined with changes in your gait and centre of gravity can set the stage for backache and neck pain.

Additionally, as labour approaches, your body secretes a hormone called relaxin, which loosens ligaments. This may exaggerate the effects of an existing spinal or pelvic problem. The positioning of the baby and its movement, alongside a forced expansion to the lower part of the ribcage in order to accommodate your growing baby, can also cause discomfort in the ribs and upper portion of the lower back.

Chiropractic is seen as a safe and effective practice during pregnancy. Not only can routine chiropractic checkups help manage pain in your back, hips and joints it can also establish pelvic balance providing your baby with as much space as possible over the course of your pregnancy.

According to recent studies, chiropractic care may result in easier pregnancy including increased comfort during the third trimester and delivery and reduced need for analgesics (pain medication).

Unless there are medical reasons to avoid it, pregnant women can and should exercise moderately for at least 30 minutes throughout most, if not all days. As ongoing low impact weight-bearing exercise may also help you, as this can contribute to normal, on-time delivery and improve the likelihood of giving birth to a healthy, heavier baby.

It’s also worth mentioning that exercise can be very helpful in coping with the postpartum period: exercise can help new mothers keep “baby blues” at bay, regain their energy and lose the weight they gained during pregnancy.

Ensure you have an adequate intake of folic acid, good sources of protein and iron, calcium-rich foods, and lots of fruits and vegetables. Alongside drinking plenty of pure water to keep hydrated. As good nutrition is essential to maintaining a healthy pregnancy.

6 Additional Tips to Help Prevent Pregnancy Backache:

1. Stand erect; do not allow your tummy to sag.

2. Change positions often to ease lower back strain.

3. Bend your knees when lifting while aiming to keep your back straight.

4. Choose a supportive and comfortable mattress.

5. Sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees.

6. Regular exercise, good nutrition, and periodic spinal adjustments can make pregnancy the pleasant, exciting experience you want it to be!

If you have any questions please feel free to contact Falcon Chiropractic Harrogate today!