Why do we get aches and pains in pregnancy?
Pregnancy is a wonderful time in a womens life but it can bring unwanted aches and pains. Not all women experience them though, just hope that you are one of the lucky ones. Hormonal changes, in particular relaxin and progesterone, can cause some of these aches and pains. These hormone levels rise to aid changes in the body required for pregnancy. For example relaxin is responsible for allowing your body to expand, to accomodate your growing baby. Unfortunately it was cause excessive ligament laxity causing aches and pain, in some women. Progesterone helps the uterine lining and breast growth, but progesterone can make the gastrointestinal tract 'lazy', making you more prone to constipation and reflux.
Some of the common aches & pains during pregnancy include:
Headaches
Neck pain
Back pain
Pelvic pain
Sciatica
Restless leg syndrome
Constipation, causing lower back pain
How can Osteopathy help?
Whilst some pain might be related to hormonal changes, osteopathy can still help relieve some of these unwanted aches & pains. Osteopathic treatment, is a hands approach to pain, using gentle manual therapy techniques. Treatment is safe for both the mother & growing baby. Tailored advice is given where necessary. This might include sleeping with a pillow between your knee's, gentle exercises, using a pregnancy belt, dietary changes relating to constipation or reflux.