Pregnancy Back Pain

Of all the changes that take place during pregnancy, back pain can be the most ailing. While some discomfort of the back is one of the most common complaints of pregnant women, there are also times where back pain during pregnancy could signal a complication.

During pregnancy, your body changes at an incredible rate. In a short period of time you gain a great deal of weight due to carrying a child, which is a stress to your back muscles. The added weight in your front section can make you walk differently and give you that "waddle" that is characteristic of pregnant women. In addition to all of that, the raging hormones in your system also tend to relax your muscles and ligaments in your back. All these changes are very demanding on your back, and your back's only response is pain.

Simple ways to prevent and relieve your pregnancy back pain

There are simple ways to prevent and aid back pain from reaching an intolerable state:

It is important to remember that you are not really eating for two. A pregnant woman only needs an average of 300 extra calories per day. By gaining your weight slowly, and not in large chunks, your back will have time to adjust to the change. Only gain the recommended amount of weight suggested by your doctor.

With our pregnancy weight gain calculator you can relieve your pregnancy back pain by monitoring your weight during pregnancy.

This is a time when you can really take Grandma's advice of sitting up straight to heart. Your center of gravity will move forward during pregnancy, and you need to compensate for this. Stand up straight with your shoulders back, and your back will benefit!

While it's not a good idea to be lifting anything over ten pounds during pregnancy, sometimes that screaming toddler does need to be picked up. If you are lifting anything, remember to squat and use your legs; not your back.

Now you have a reason to go get that weekly massage that you've deserved for so long. Massaging the muscles in the back can release a lot of tension, making your back pain during pregnancy feel so much better. Many spas and salons even offer special pregnancy massages.

One great way to prevent and aid back pain is to invest in a good supportive pillow. Your neck is directly related to your back, and having the proper support will help. Sleeping on your side with a pillow between your legs will also help prevent back pain.

Get down on the ground on your hands and knees. Hunch your shoulders and arch your back up, and then realign your back with your neck. Repeat as often as needed.

Acetaminophen is safe to use during pregnancy, and if all other natural methods fail, should be used to relieve your pain. You may also try ice packs, maternity back braces, or a chiropractor.

If you have pain that shoots down your leg or foot, or your back pain during pregnancy is severe or sudden, call your doctor immediately. A dull cramping in your lower back could also signal preterm labor and requires a physician's attention.

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