$Unique_ID{BRK01469}
$Pretitle{Pregnancy and Childbirth}
$Title{Suggestions For Relief From Back Pains During Pregnancy}
$Subject{pregnancy low back treatment}
$Volume{K-18}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Suggestions For Relief From Back Pains During Pregnancy


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QUESTION:  As my pregnancy advances (I am now in my seventh month) I find my
back pains are increasing as well.  I am sure I am not the first person with
this problem, but I haven't really been able to find any decent solutions.  I
want to stay away from pills, but it is getting to the point where the
discomfort is more than annoying.  Do you have a suggestion or two that might
help me get some relief?

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ANSWER:  I doubt that there are many women who escape the problem of low back
pain occurring at some time during their pregnancy period.  A simple side view
is enough to reveal that your center of gravity is changing, moving upward and
forward, as the baby grows larger.  This puts more strain on your back muscles
as you strive to walk erect against the weight.  Assuming that the pain is not
the result of an old condition that existed before your pregnancy, and is not
caused by such things as a urinary infection, or aggravated by an excessive
weight gain, there are a few measures you can take to reduce the discomfort.
And I agree with you, forgo any unnecessary medication during this time.  The
first assignment is to take a good survey of the tasks that cause the greatest
pain and seek to alter the way you approach them.  If sitting is a problem,
check your position in the chair.  If your knees are lower than your hips you
can be putting extra pressure on your back by tilting your pelvis forward.
Try placing a book or block of wood on the floor to rest your feet on, and
place a small cushion or folded towel under your thighs to help elevate your
knees a bit higher.  Standing is better than sitting, so try to keep erect
when possible.  Avoid jobs that require you to bend over for long periods of
time, and raise your work surfaces to a more comfortable level.  If you must
lift something, keep the load as close to your body as you can.  Exercises can
be a big help to strengthen your aching muscles, and your obstetrician can
advise you about the best ones for you.  There are times when a relaxing
massage can loosen up those tight muscles and provide just the right
prescription that affords the relief you need.
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
