5 Tips For Avoiding Pregnancy Back Pain
Pregnancy back pain is something that all pregnant women suffer at some point. By the time the 36th week is reached estimates suggest that 66% of all women have endured some sort of pain in the back and pelvic areas. The main reason for Pregnancy Back Pain is the increase in body weight as the baby develops. The back not only has to support the mothers body weight but that of the baby too putting increased pressure on the muscles and vertebrae. The way in which the baby is lying in the womb can also be a cause of pregnancy back pain especially if it causes a nerve to become trapped. Being pregnant can also be fairly stressful which can cause muscle tension and in turn backache.The good thing about pregnancy back pain is that it will usually disappear fairly quickly after the birth of the child.
It is possible to avoid pregnancy back pain to a large degree if you follow these 5 simple tips:
1. Find something which will help you relax and "de-stress" on a daily basis. Make sure you set aside a minimum of 30 minutes to take a bubble bath, meditate or just listen to some gentle music. You will be amazed at the difference this can make to stress levels.
2. Diet is of great importance. To avoid Pregnancy Back Pain the main aim is to avoid increasing your own body weight whilst allowing your growing baby to gain weight. This will prevent too much excess weight being supported by the back and decrease the chance of major backache. Preventing kidney infections by drinking plenty of water is also useful as this can cause great discomfort and pain in the lower back. A healthy, well balanced diet generally will promote good health which is especially important in pregnancy for mother and baby.
3. Gentle exercise is a good idea as this will strengthen the back muscles. It is important that you talk to your doctor first but in general things such as walking, yoga and aqua exercise are all excellent ways of getting some exercise. Check your local press, there are usually classes specifically designed for pregnant women. It is also possible to purchase yoga and exercise programs of this kind on DVD for home use.
4. Getting plenty of rest is essential. I am not suggesting for one minute that you take to bed or spend the whole day on the couch in front of the telly. This would most probably do more harm than good as your muscles would start to stiffen up. By all means carry on with your daily tasks but ensure that you take more frequent rest breaks, have a cup of your favourite drink and relax for a while. If you can, try to reduce the amount of activity which can put added strain on the back and avoid sitting for long periods without getting up for a stretch break. A pillow or cushion placed at the small of the back when sitting can be helpful in preventing Pregnancy Back Pain also.
5. A pregnancy girdle may sound like a frightening contraption, but it really can help in the prevention of pregnancy back pain. It works by supporting the tummy and taking the strain away from the back, worn like any other type of girdle it is hidden under the clothing so no-one need know your secret!
