How to Handle Back Pain During Pregnancy
Studies have shown that more than half of pregnant women will experience some level of back pain during their pregnancy. It’s natural to develop back pain due to the increased weight, shifted center of gravity, hormones and other factors. However, you don’t have to be miserable during your pregnancy. By incorporating simple spine care techniques and practices, you can go through your pregnancy with reduced back pain and have the ability to manage the pain much easier.
Use Proper Lifting Techniques
Of course, pregnant women should not be lifting heavy items to begin with, but there are proper lifting techniques to use for even lighter lifting. To prevent lower left back pain, focus on keeping the back straight, bending the knees and lifting with the legs. Avoid twisting the body as much as possible and lift slowly. And if there’s an item you need to lift that will require you to use improper lifting techniques, always ask for help.
Focus on Better Posture
Since your center of gravity will be shifted as every month of pregnancy goes by, it’s more important than ever before to practice good posture. If you have to sit for prolonged periods of time, make sure you have the proper support at your seat and desk, keep your feet flat on the floor and avoid slouching. Many times poor posture is the reason for lower left back pain for pregnant women, so be proactive in correcting it.
Get Quality Sleep
When you have the opportunity to go to sleep early or sleep late in the morning, do it. Quality sleep will give you the strength to get through the day and go through your pregnancy with minimal muscle pain. If you’re having a hard time sleeping, try elevating your feet and sleeping on your side. Not only will these positions likely help you sleep better, but they are good for your spine care as well.
Stay as Active as You Can
Being active can go a long way in preventing lower left back pain in women during and after their pregnancy. Doing light lower back exercises and other stretches will help tremendously, but always seek the advice from your medical professional to determine the safest exercises to do. Simple exercises will help strengthen your muscles and keep the back pain away.
DBC Active Spine Care® works with pregnant women to help them with their back pain all the time. Going through a pregnancy should be a joyous time rather than a painful one, and we are here to help with our spine adaptive functional restoration program. If you’re experiencing any level of back pain during your pregnancy, give us a call and see how our revolutionary program can work for you.