Previously, we talked about the high incidence of low back pain in pregnant women, especially in the final trimester of pregnancy, and some basic ways to prevent low-back pain. We hope that you will be able to prevent back pain.
If, despite your efforts, back pain arrives, let’s talk about what you can do or how we can help:
- Physical therapy: If your back pain is unbearable, we encourage you to make an appointment with our physical therapist. We can recommend exercises for you and watch you practice while you’re in the office. That way, we can be sure your position and movements are safe and appropriate. These exercises can be to prevent pain or for when back pain flares up.
- Posture check: When you come into our office, we can also show you the best ways to sit and stand that will allow you to keep back pain at bay.
- Pain medication: check with us regarding what drugs are allowed for pregnant women.
- Sometimes, applying heat or cold can alleviate back pain. Come see us before starting this regimen. Often several days of cold compresses followed by a few days of heat applied to the low back can bring some relief. Never apply heat to your stomach.
- Psychological support: in our offices, we understand that the physical and the mental aspects of pain are interrelated. If you are under stress (and pregnancy, even a well-planned, expected one can be stressful), you may need some counseling to help you through this transition.
- Chiropractic adjustment: this procedure can be safe during pregnancy and can really help diminish pain.
- Acupuncture: this complementary medical approach, inserting small needles into the skin, also can be a source of relief for many of our patients.
- Support Belt: there is not great evidence that these support belts are effective; nevertheless, if it works for you, there’s no danger in trying one on (except the cost of buying one).
Give us a call and let us help you if your lower back pain is more than you can bear.
IMPORTANT NOTE: ANYTIME you are ever concerned that the feeling or sensation you have while pregnant is questionable, call your obstetrician immediately. Pain accompanied by vaginal bleeding, fever or burning during urination may be very serious. If this occurs, contact your obstetrician immediately.
