While pregnancy can be a wonderful and beautiful process, it can also be very taxing on the body. Many people are unaware of the positive effects that Chiropractic treatments can have on the body during pregnancy. Studies report that over 50% of all pregnant mothers will experience low back and/or pelvic pain at some point during their pregnancy. Pregnancy related low back pain can have a severe effect on their daily routines and their ability to enjoy life.
There are multiple reasons and causes as to why low back pain is so prevalent in the pregnant population. First, the body is undergoing a huge change and as the baby is growing the centre of mass of the mother moves forward away from the spine. This leads to an increase in the curve of the lumbar spine (hyperlordosis). These postural changes cause more stress on the low back of the mothers, putting more weight on the intervertebral discs and the joints of the lumbar spine.
Secondly, there are hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy that make women more susceptible to back pain, mainly a hormone called relaxin. The job of this hormone is to make the birthing process easier by make the ligaments of the mother more “lax” or flexible. During the pregnancy this also places more stress on the muscles and joints of the low back and pelvis as they need to compensate to maintain proper support.
Chiropractic treatment is a natural and drug free method proven to be effective in managing low back and pelvic pain during pregnancy and after birth. Chiropractic is a safe and conservative treatment that has no known contraindications in treating the pregnant population. After a thorough exam performed by a chiropractor, treatment will most often consist of gentle spinal and pelvic mobilization as well as specific stretching and exercises aimed at reducing the stress on the low back of the mother.
In addition, research has shown that chiropractic adjustments of the pelvis during pregnancy can lead to an increase in control over the pelvic floor muscles in pregnant women. This can result in an easier and safer delivery.
If you are suffering from pregnancy related low back and pelvic pain, our experienced doctors here at Oakville Chiropractic Centre want to help. Send us an email by clicking here and submitting a form on our website or call us to make an appointment at 905-845-2291 to find out how Oakville Chiropractic Centre can help you. Direct billing is available.
Dr. Phillip Wessel
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