Osteopaths and Pregnancy. What is our role?
During pregnancy, the female body undergoes various changes to be able to accommodate a growing foetus and for birth. Postural changes occur along with a growing abdomen and an increase in weight. Other subtle changes in the body occur due to the changes in hormones. A combination of these things can have an effect on the joints, muscles and ligaments of the pregnant body.
How can an Osteopath support you during pregnancy?
An osteopath can support the pregnant body through it’s changes and address any aches, niggles, or restrictions that may develop due to the various changes that happen in each stage of pregnancy. We are trained to see that structure and function of the body are interrelated, which reflects in our treatment approach. We use safe, evidence-based treatment techniques in order to normalise the body’s structure to be able to function efficiently.
The most common complaints osteopaths see during pregnancy include:
- Lower Back Pain
- Pelvic Girdle Pain
- Sciatica
- Shortness of breath
- Neck, shoulder and upper back pain
- Insomnia
- Swelling in the limbs
- High blood pressure
- Fatigue
Can we help you post-natally?
Yes! It is common for women to experience issues postnatally. At the osteopathic clinic, we have 3 osteopaths who have undergone further training pelvic health. LJ, Sophie and Natalie can help you in addressing:
- Any ongoing back/pelvic girdle related problems
- Pelvic floor muscle assessment and training
- Urinary incontinence
- Bowel problems eg. Constipation
- Postural advice
Each pregnancy is different, so our management plans are tailored towards the individual. We can also support you by giving you gentle exercises to perform during or after pregnancy if we see that these may benefit you in decreasing your pain.
REFERENCES
Soma-Pillay, P., Nelson-Piercy, C., Tolppanen, H., & Mebazaa, A. (2016). Physiological changes in pregnancy. Cardiovascular journal of Africa, 27(2), 89–94. https://doi.org/10.5830/CVJA-2016-021