Pregnancy is an exciting time of change and growth. Physiological changes occur within the body during pregnancy to accommodate for a growing child and prepare for birth.
Hormone levels are altered throughout pregnancy; with oestrogen, progesterone and relaxin increasing the amount of collagen in the bones, joints, muscles and ligaments. The tissues become more elastic with an increased ability for the body to be able to move and grow throughout the pregnancy and birthing process.
Biomechanical changes occur to the pelvis, spine and lower limb to compensate for the increase in weight gain and fluid retention during pregnancy and can commonly result in pain or discomfort. Pregnant patients commonly present to OsteopathyOne with;
- Pelvic girdle pain
- Low back pain and sciatica
- Abdominal separation – diastasis recti
- Hip dysfunction
- Wrist pain – carpal tunnel
- Foot pain – plantar fasciitis
- Neck pain and headaches
- Mid back and rib pain
At OsteopathyOne we believe in “one body one health” and endeavour to holistically support our patients throughout the entire journey of pregnancy. Manual osteopathic treatment can improve pain, mobility and restriction and enable the mother and baby to feel and be comfortable throughout the pregnancy.
Osteopaths can also provide education, support and lifestyle advice throughout pregnancy. Patient specific exercise based treatment including the incorporation of pilates based exercises can improve the body’s strength and mobility, which can help with active labour and delivery.
Just as the physiological and biomechanical changes occur in the body during pregnancy, the body is adapting after birth. It is important for our osteopaths to review with the mother after birth as labour may be traumatic and cause dysfunction within the body. Repetitive daily activities including breastfeeding, lifting and bending to care for your child may also cause discomfort, which should not be neglected.
Author: Dr Michaela Bidmade