Should You Be Concerned About Back Pain While Pregnant?

Pregnancy is both an exciting and mysterious time. In addition to that natural pregnancy glow, you can experience weird food cravings, mood swings, and annoying aches and pains, especially in your back. 

As your body grows rapidly to make room for the baby, you may find you undergo some natural shifting and twisting. Minor aches and spasms are a common result of this sudden change and oftentimes are nothing to worry about. At-home remedies and stretches can significantly help to relieve the discomfort, though that may not always be the case. If the back pain does not subside or even worsens, you can contact a qualified back and spine specialist at Orthopedic & Laser Spine Surgery to get a proper evaluation of your situation. 

Growing Pains Can Be Completely Normal 

The ligaments in your body may instinctively soften as your child’s upcoming due date nears. As a result, there is added stress on your lower spine and pelvis, which causes your back to ache. Everyday occurrences become more strenuous on the body, and easier tasks, like bending over to pick up scattered toys or sitting at your office desk can cause considerable strain.

As you begin to adjust to the additional weight you are carrying around, the pain will often become more manageable and less noticeable. After the end of a long day, it is likely you will still feel minor twinges and tweaks, but typically, it is completely normal and nothing that can’t be soothed at home. 

Safe Ways to Relieve Back Pain While Pregnant

There are plenty of ways to help relieve some of the pain that is safe for both you and your baby. Next time you find yourself with back aches, attempt some of the following at-home remedies:

• Stretching: It might seem too good to be true, but a good, old-fashioned lower back stretch can really help alleviate growing pains. Simple standing stretches like the Reverse High 5 and Cat Cow are great for the lower back and increased flexibility.
• Switch to flats: As the baby bump grows larger, it will eventually come time to trade in all of your other shoes for a pair of supportive flats or sneakers. This will greatly improve your posture, which is vital for your overall health. Additionally, we recommend propping your feet up on an elevated surface whenever possible. 
• Warm bath: A warm bath is good for the soul, as well as the back. Heat therapy is a great way to loosen up the muscles in your back and release tension. Alternatively, if you are experiencing swelling of any kind, you may gently apply a cold compress to the affected area to relieve pressure. 

Additionally, preventative measures, such as using your knees when you bend over, turning with your whole body instead of just your head or back, going on walks, and getting a good night’s rest can go a long way. 

When To Go To A Medical Professional 

If you have experienced pain that has lasted longer than two weeks or is not going away after making the proper lifestyle adjustments, it is advisable to reach out to a medical professional. 

Lingering back pain for those who are pregnant can oftentimes be caused by sciatic nerve pain, which is easily diagnosable and treatable. In rarer cases, it can also be a symptom of preterm labor or a urinary tract infection. Typically, in these situations, the back pain will be accompanied by a fever or other symptoms. 

Have An Orthopedic Doctor at OLSS Assess Your Situation Today

If you find your conditions are not going away or have gotten worse, you might need medical attention. Consistent back pain while pregnant can be scary and affect your overall mood. Our spinal experts are here to help relieve your stressors, whether they are mental or physical.

Orthopedic & Laser Spine Surgery will work with you to diagnose and treat your back pains so you may continue to have a happy and healthy pregnancy, pain-free. To get in touch with one of our spinal experts, please call us at (855) 853-6542 or use our contact form.