Pain During Pregnancy
The pregnant woman’s body is continuously changing during pregnancy and during the post-partum period. Many women experience problems that may be effectively treated in physical and occupational therapy – cervical, thoracic, and lumbar pain, sacroiliac (SI) joint pain, sciatica, foot pain, postural dysfunctions and carpal tunnel syndrome.
The most common complaint experienced during pregnancy is low back pain. According to the May 2000 issue of Physical Therapy, 87.5% of women report low back pain during pregnancy, and 33% of women report pain during the post-partum period. Hormonal changes early and late in pregnancy can lead to ligamentous laxity and contribute to joint instability. It has been shown that SI joint mobility can increase as much as four times in pregnant women.
Biomechanical changes in posture that occur during pregnancy also increase the risk for low back pain. As the center of gravity moves forward, lumbar lordosis and anterior pelvic tilt increase, placing the low back and SI joint in an inherently unstable position. In addition, as the abdominal muscles elongate they lose their mechanical advantage for force production and trunk stabilization.
Physical therapy intervention during pregnancy can decrease acute low back pain allowing women to be more active and may promote healthier pregnancy. Furthermore, intervention during pregnancy may decrease the incidence of post-pardum low back pain. Our very own, Kim Saunder’s, PT, DPT is professionally certified in treating women during and after pregnancy. So make an appointment today!
Problems
Diastasis recti
Postural dysfunction
Soft tissue restrictions
Fatigue and deconditioning
Limited sitting/walking tolerance
Joint dysfunction/instability
Post -Caesarian scar tissue
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Physical Therapy Solutions
Education on labor and delivery positions
Joint mobilization/ stabilization
Rebalancing strength/ flexibility
Postural Re-education
Core Stabilization
Kinesiotaping
Soft tissue release
Habit modification
Shoe wear advice
External stabilization belts
Fitness/exercise advice
Wrist splinting