50-72% of women have low back pain (LBP) and/or pelvic pain during pregnancy. Only about a third of them do anything about it.
Pregnancy-related low back pain (PLBP) is a debilitating condition. It is the most common cause of work absences in pregnant women. In 2004, Americans spent $26.1 billion on treatments for pregnancy-related back pain. Statistics show 1 out of 10 girls can expertise daily disabling LBP for a minimum of 2 years following delivery.
Treatment for low back pain during pregnancy is limited because of safety concerns for the pregnant woman and her fetus. Drugs, injections, and surgery are NOT appropriate for an expectant mother, postpartum, or even while breastfeeding. Chiropractic care offers non-invasive care that can safely manage lumbopelvic pain. Chiropractic care should be considered a preferred treatment choice for disabling pregnancy-related low back pain
Pregnancy Research
A 2009 paper investigated pain and disability in 78 pregnant women. After receiving chiropractic care for low back pain, 75% of the women rated their overall improvement great. Since back pain can become chronic after pregnancy, researchers followed up at 11 months with these women. 85% of the women rated their overall improvement from chiropractic care as great. They rated their function as 73% improved with pain at 82% improved!
What’s causing LBP in pregnant women? The biomechanical changes occur within the low back and pelvis within the second and third trimesters. Common pain generators are (but aren’t restricted to): the sacroiliac joint, hip joints, lumbar disks, and connecting muscles and ligaments. During the later stages of pregnancy, the hormone Relaxin prepares the pelvis for delivery by widening the pelvic girdle, which can also be problematic.
Chiropractic Care for PLBP
Chiropractic treatment may include spinal manipulation, lumbopelvic exercises, patient education, posture correction, massage, soft tissue mobilization, and more. Exercises that target the transverse abdominous, multifidus, and pelvic floor muscles help to stabilize the lumbopelvic region. The American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists recommends exercise at least 3 times a week during pregnancy. The good news is that research report NO pregnancy-related complications. This includes pre-term labor, premature ruptured membranes, or changes to maternal or neonatal weight in normal healthy women with exercise.
When PLBP strikes, seek chiropractic care so you can enjoy your pregnancy safely and effectively. We understand you have options in whom you choose for your healthcare team. We appreciate the trust our patients give us. At Woodward Chiropractic & Massage, we are happy to answer any questions you, family, or friends may have about PLBP.
