Even though the end result is beautiful, nine months of pregnancy can prove to be an ordeal for expectant mothers. While women are blessed with the ability to procreate, pregnancy brings about hormonal changes that often result in a host of health complications.
Upper back pain during pregnancy is quite common and is the result of the weight of the baby growing in the mother’s womb, changes in the mother’s body and hormonal changes. Read further to understand the causes of upper back pain during pregnancy, its symptoms and treatment.
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Reasons And Causes:
There are multiple reasons and causes for upper back pain during pregnancy. The most obvious and common cause for back pain during pregnancy is the growing mass of the baby in the womb. This combined with weight gain in expectant mothers is known to increase pressure on the upper back. This is most likely to occur during the third semester. Apart from weight gain in both mother and child, the later stage of pregnancy also brings about hormonal changes. During the latter stages of pregnancy, certain hormones are released in to the body, preparing it for delivery.
This generally brings about the loosening of muscles and ligaments. As a result of loose muscle and ligaments, the back and pelvis become unstable and the muscles put more effort in to maintaining body balance. This stress on all the major muscles including the upper back can often result in pain and muscle spasms. Another reason for back pains is the growing size of the mammary glands that put pressure on the upper back. Whilst all of this is unavoidable and pain killers are not advisable, simple exercises and precautions may relieve the pain. Read further to know more.
Precautions And Treatment:
Fortunately there are certain steps an expectant mother can take to avoid excessive upper back pain. Certain methods may even provide relief during bouts of discomfort and pain in the upper back.
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1. Correct Posture Whilst Standing:
Whilst pregnant mothers would enjoy taking rest for the complete duration of their pregnancy, it is not entirely possible or advisable. There may be occasions when an expectant mother may need to remain standing for a prolonged duration of time. Under such circumstances one should insure correct posture that puts the least possible stress on the upper back. Keeping a wide stance, with one’s leg spread out and body weight distributed equally on both sides can help to a huge extent.
2. Correct Posture Whilst Sleeping:
Prolonged hours of reclining on the back during pregnancy can cause pain. It’s best to sleep on one’s side and thus maintain a safe and neutral position. Just the right amount of pillows will also insure that the neck and spine are comfortably settled during the duration of sleep. High pillows are a definite no.
3. Correct Posture Whilst Sitting:
One should maintain correct posture whilst sitting. The knees should never be above the legs so it’s best to avoid reclining chairs and sofas. A chair with good lumbar support or lumbar pillows can be very handy during the pregnancy stage.
It’s best to keep both feet grounded and a shoulder width apart. This insures equal distribution of weight and minimum stress on the back. When the lower back is well cushioned and supported, the upper back is stress free and relaxed.
Massage And Exercise:
Consulting a physiotherapist and regular massages may help during pregnancy. During bouts of pain, reliving techniques like hot and cold water bag applications may help.
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I hope that above article upper back pain during pregnancy is helpful to you.
