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For many people, pregnancy can bring about various physical discomforts. Back pain is a common complaint as the body undergoes significant changes to accommodate the growing fetus. Fortunately, physical therapy can be a valuable tool in managing and alleviating back pain during pregnancy.

Understanding Back Pain During Pregnancy

Back pain during pregnancy can be caused by a variety of factors, or a combination of factors. A prenatal physical therapist can find the root cause of your pain. Added weight, hormonal changes, increased movement at pelvic joints, and changes in movement patterns to compensate for changing body composition are some possible causes of back pain.

The Benefits of Physical Therapy

Physical therapy during pregnancy can provide a range of benefits to manage and reduce back pain:

1. Pain Relief:

Physical therapists can employ various techniques and exercises to alleviate back pain. These may include gentle stretching, strengthening exercises, manual therapy, and education in changing movement patterns. Many people feel significant relief in a short amount of time.

2. Strengthening Muscles:

Strengthening the muscles, including the abdominal, glut, pelvic floor, and back muscles, can provide better support for the spine and pelvis. A physical therapist can design exercises that are safe and effective and customized to your needs. Many times, these exercises are not just strengthening your muscles, but reeducating how your brain and muscles communicate with each other. How cool is that?!

3. Pelvic Floor Exercises:

During pregnancy the pelvic floor muscles support the growing fetus inside the growing uterus. Pelvic floor muscles often become overactive and temporarily lose their ability to relax and lengthen. When that happens it can contribute to increasing pain and can cause difficulty when it comes to delivery. Improving pelvic floor muscle lengthening and coordination helps to reduce muscle overactivity and to improve support of the baby and uterus, as well as supporting the pelvis, hips, and spine.

4. Manual Therapy:

Manual therapy primarily includes techniques to address pain directly. Overactive muscles, trigger points, and restrictions in movement can cause pain. Manual therapy can quickly bring the pain under control.

5. Labor and Delivery Education:

One of the most important aspects of treatment for low back pain in pregnancy is education to prepare for labor and delivery. Many physical therapist would not have this specific training, even if they can address your pain in the moment. A benefit of going to someone who is truly a specialist is they can advise you on positions to utilize and avoid during labor to avoid aggravating your symptoms.

6. Postpartum Education:

Since pregnancy is a temporary state, care may include advice and education on early postpartum care as well. For example, your physical therapist may recommend certain lifting, carrying, or sitting positions to avoid symptom aggravation as you are healing postpartum.

Safety and Individualized Care

It's essential to work with a qualified healthcare professional, a physical therapist who specializes in prenatal care is able to better tailor treatment based on the stage of pregnancy, any existing medical conditions, and other factors to ensure a safe and effective approach.

Conclusion

Back pain during pregnancy is a common discomfort that many experience. Physical therapy can be an excellent option to manage and alleviate this pain while also educating on how to avoid aggravation during labor, delivery, and the early postpartum period. It's crucial to consult a specialist to receive truly personalized care and guidance. Physical therapy, when utilized effectively, can contribute significantly to a more pleasant and pain-free pregnancy journey.