Pregnancy produces the largest postural change that a woman will undergo. The body has to get used to carrying up to 20lb/10kg of baby, waters and placenta, which can impose great physical strain on the organs, tissues, joints and ligaments of the body. In order for the pregnant body to adapt to all these changes it has to find new ways to walk, sit and sleep resulting with new aches and pains.
Gentle osteopathic treatment may relieve discomfort from changes in posture as well as many other symptoms such as
- aches and pains (back pain, neck and shoulder pain, muscular tension)
- groin, lower abdominal pain or pubic symphysis pain
- nausea and vomiting
- heartburn
- indigestion
- constipation
- sciatica
An Osteopath can also:
- Provide advice on breathing techniques, stretches and exercise you can do to maintain your health and wellbeing throughout your pregnancy
- Help prepare for a more trouble free childbirth, by improving flexibility in the pelvis and abdomen
- Help the mother to recover after birth
Osteopathic treatment after birth
After birth it is advised that both mother and child return to see an osteopath for a check up and, if necessary, for treatment. Osteopathy after a pregnancy can:
- Ensure your body returns back to shape quickly
- Help you regain your strength and flexibility
- Check and correct any remaining strains in the back and pelvis
Also, after birth your baby can suffer long lasting effects from the moulding process of birth, and a check-up with an osteopath is highly recommended. Visit our Osteopathy for Babies page to find out more…
