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Pregnancy is a unique and powerful experience. Enormous physical, hormonal and emotional changes take place over a relatively short period of time. The body has to adapt to carrying up to 20lb of baby, waters and placenta, which can impose physical strain on all the organs and tissues and requires enormous postural changes over a short period of time. Discomforts of Pregnancy Aches and pains are common during pregnancy, as the body changes shape to accommodate the increasing size and weight of the womb. This involves considerable changes to posture. If the mother has existing back problems, or strains in her body from past accidents or trauma, it may be more difficult for her to accommodate these changes, and she may suffer more discomfort as a result. The ligaments of the whole body soften during pregnancy due to the action of hormones. This allows the bones of the pelvis to separate slightly during the delivery to aid the passage of the baby’s head through the pelvis. Unfortunately this softening affects the whole body and makes it more vulnerable to strain during the pregnancy. Postural changes may cause backache, neck ache, headaches, sciatica, aching legs and undue fatigue. Nausea and vomiting can cause debilitating physical strains in the diaphragm and ribs. As the womb expands, it can stretch and squash the diaphragm contributing to heartburn. Postural changes through the lower ribs and spine can alter the action of the diaphragm and make breathing difficult. Is Osteopathy safe during Pregnancy? Osteopaths are highly skilled and undergo a minimum of 4 years training. Gentle osteopathic techniques are perfectly safe at all stages of pregnancy. The cranial osteopathic approach is a particularly gentle way of working without force. Osteopaths will always ensure that patients seek appropriate medical advice and treatment alongside any osteopathic treatment, and will refer patients back to their GP if a problem is not suitable for osteopathic treatment.. |
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