4 Ways to Combat Pregnancy-Related Backache

Posted on Jun 27, 2012 | Blog Posts, Pregnancy Symptoms Category | | Print This Article

Backache is one of the most common pregnancy symptoms out there. Some women experience pregnancy backache in the first trimester due to hormonal changes; most women experience some degree or another of backache later on in pregnancy when their center of gravity shifts so significantly.

What makes pregnancy backache particularly frustrating is that you can’t take most of the normal backache medications when you’re pregnant. Either they’re known to cause risks with pregnancy, or they haven’t been sufficiently tested to see whether or not they’re safe.

Fortunately, there are some things you can try that can help with that pregnancy backache:

1. Work on your posture. Your posture is important; you’ve probably been told that all of your life. Yet, having good posture during pregnancy is more about finding the best position to help your body through its changes. The best way to improve your posture is to stand in front of a mirror. Hold your head up, and then turn your chin in slightly. You can see how your back changes shape when you do this. Try to maintain this position whether you’re walking or sitting.
2. Treat it therapeutically. Choose a nice herbal massage oil, and get your partner to rub down your back and push out those aches. Chiropractic care is generally considered safe during pregnancy as well, though you’ll need to be sure that your chiropractor is aware that you’re pregnant and that she’s experienced dealing with pregnant women.
3. Go swimming. Swimming is one of the best exercises for pregnant women. The backstroke and front crawl are ideal, and will help stretch and soothe your back. Avoid the breaststroke, however, as it puts undue pressure on the shoulders and on the neck.
4. Be careful getting up. When you get up, roll to the side and sit up before you put your feet down on the floor. If you’re in a chair, make sure you have a chair with a cushion behind you. When you get up, put your feet on the floor and then push up with your arms.

While these tips won’t guarantee you don’t have backache during pregnancy, they can offer you some relief when it’s particularly bad.

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