Chiropractic
care during pregnancy
Chiropractic care during pregnancy can provide relief from pain and discomfort particularly in the pelvic region. By utilizing gentle adjustments, chiropractors can help align the spine and pelvis, reducing pressure on nerves improving overall function. This holistic approach not only alleviates pain but also promotes better mobility and comfort throughout pregnancy. Many women find chiropractic care beneficial for managing their changing bodies and preparing for labour.
Common conditions during pregnancy
1) Lower back pain:
Cause: As the baby grows, the body’s centre of gravity shifts, and the ligaments and muscles in the lower back stretch and become looser due to the hormone relaxin. This can lead to strain and discomfort in the lower back.
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Symptoms: Dull or sharp pain in the lower back, particularly when standing or sitting for long periods, or when bending or lifting.
2) Pelvic Girdle Pain:
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Cause: PGP occurs when the ligaments in the pelvic area loosen and stretch, often due to hormonal changes. The joints in the pelvis may become misaligned or stiff, causing pain.
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Symptoms: Pain in the lower back, hips, or pubic bone, often exacerbated by movements like walking, turning in bed, or climbing stairs.
3) Symphysis pubic dysfunction (SPD)
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Cause: SPD is a specific type of pelvic pain that occurs when the symphysis pubis joint (where the two sides of the pelvis meet) becomes loosened or misaligned. The hormone relaxin causes this joint to loosen, which can cause instability and discomfort.
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Symptoms: Pain and discomfort in the pubic area, groin, or lower abdomen, often worsened by activities like walking, turning in bed, or standing on one leg.
4) Sciatica
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Cause: The growing uterus can put pressure on the sciatic nerve, leading to pain that radiates down the back of the leg. This is more common in the later stages of pregnancy.
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Symptoms: Sharp, shooting pain, numbness, or tingling that starts in the lower back or buttocks and travels down one leg.
5) Round Ligament Pain
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Cause: The round ligaments support the uterus and stretch as the baby grows. The stretching and tightening of these ligaments can cause sharp, sudden pain.
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Symptoms: A sharp, stabbing pain or a dull ache on one or both sides of the lower abdomen, typically when changing positions, standing up, or coughing.
6) Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
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Cause: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to fluid retention and swelling, which may compress the median nerve in the wrist (the carpal tunnel). This is more common in the second and third trimesters.
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Symptoms: Numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hands and wrists, often worse at night.
7) Postural Changes
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Cause: As pregnancy progresses, the body undergoes changes in posture due to weight gain and shifts in the center of gravity. This can lead to muscle strain and discomfort.
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Symptoms: General discomfort in the back, shoulders, and neck, often worsened by prolonged sitting or standing.
8) Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
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Cause: Pregnancy can cause changes in posture and increased fluid retention, which can compress the nerves or blood vessels in the upper chest area, leading to thoracic outlet syndrome.
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Symptoms: Pain, numbness, or tingling in the neck, shoulder, arm, or hand.