Osteopathy, Pregnancy and You
'Some common treatments for musculoskeletal aches and pains, such as drugs, physiotherapy and exercise, are not always suitable for pregnant women. Osteopathy offers a safe and effective way of dealing with these common conditions' - British Osteopathic Association
What conditions can Osteopathy help with?
Osteopathy can help with many of the pains associated with changing posture in pregnancy such as low back pain, sciatica, headaches coming from the neck and many other generalised aches and pains.
What causes low back pain in pregnancy?
With advancing pregnancy, more strain is placed upon the joints in the lumbar spine (low back) as your body's centre of gravity shifts forward. This biomechanical change, combined with hormonal changes and muscular dysfunction can lead to both generalised and acute low back pain.
What causes pelvic pain in pregnancy?
Pain at the back of the pelvis usually comes from either one of the sacroiliac joints (where the bones come together at the base of the spine). This joint can become unstable during pregnancy, causing all the surrounding muscles to contract in an attempt to keep everything steady. Both the joint and the muscles can cause pain, and occasionally this pain refers down the leg.
For some women the main source of pain is the pubic symphysis, known as symphysis pubis dysfunction, and this is usually caused by a shift or torsion in the pelvis.
What does a consultation involve?
To answer this question, you can take a look at the page 'What to expect from your first appointment'. For pregnant patients specifically, your Osteopath can give you advice about exercise, how to do daily tasks like getting in and out of bed more comfortably and assess whether you are likely to benefit from a pelvic support belt.
How do I book an appointment?
If you'd like to see whether Balanced Osteopathy could help you during your pregnancy, please email Rebecca on balancedosteopathy@hotmail.co.uk or call 07894850229. And if you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask!
