Now your back starts hurting and your thinking, great another appointment, this time with the physio. But can they help?
During pregnancy, your body undergoes many changes. Those that have gone through pregnancy before will no doubt let you know of the changes that you will notice!
Sometimes with these changes comes aches and pains. You may experience pain which can stem from;
- hormones (that dreaded word!)
- position of your growing baby
- stretching of ligaments
- changes to your posture
- altered centre of gravity
- having to sleep on your side all night
What Aches And Pains Can Physio Help With While Are Are Pregnant?
Throughout your pregnancy you may feel may nauseas, irritable, reflux-y. These are unfortunately the joys of being pregnant for some.
On the plus side, there are many musculoskeletal problems that physiotherapy can help you with! Commonly, we see women for pregnancy related;
- lower back pain
- round ligament pain
- pelvic pain
- lateral hip pain
- carpal tunnel
- neck and shoulder pain
- upper back pain / stiffness
- headaches
- posture pain or worries
- core strength
- pelvic floor
The most common complaints are listed above, but if you are experiencing something that is not the list, fear not!
Speak with your physio and they will be able to discuss your problem with you and work towards a solution or point you in the right direction of someone who can.
What Are The Benefits Of Having Physio During Pregnancy?
Physiotherapy can provide you with short and long term pain relief, while also working together with you to provide strategies to help you along with the rest of your pregnancy.
Physiotherapists can also help by guiding you through exercises which are safe to do during pregnancy which will help you feel stronger!
What Types Of Treatment Can Physiotherapists Provide While You Are Pregnant?
During your session, your physiotherapist can use a variety of treatment methods to help reduce your pain, such as;
- Massage
- Joint mobilisation
- Posture training
- Taping
- Providing you with strategies to help you prevent strains on your changing body
- Prescription of supports and braces (eg a sacroiliac joint belt, SRC pants)
- Exercise prescription
- Education
There are unfortunately some treatment methods that we shy away from while you are pregnant for the safety of both you and your baby. You can find out more about them here .
Can’t Lay On Your Tummy Anymore?
No need to worry, we have belly pillows which allow you to lay on your stomach for treatment (see picture below).
If this isn’t comfortable, your physiotherapist can treat you laying on your side or sitting in a chair.
Physiotherapy And Exercise Therapy
During pregnancy, participating in some form of gentle exercise has been shown to be very beneficial in both your health and the health of your baby.
Physiotherapists (such as us here at Phyx.) provide the option of attending supervised exercise classes (which include Pilates informed exercises).
Benefits Of Pregnancy Classes
Benefits of these classes include;
- Strengthen your lower back and pelvic muscles
- Pelvic Floor strengthening and education
- Relieve back and neck pain with pregnancy safe stretching exercises
- Prepare your body for childbirth and beyond
- Get advice from your physio at each session with any concerns about pains during your pregnancy.
Our classes at Phyx. are designed by our physiotherapists who have undergone training in pregnancy and post partum exercises.
The classes are tailored to each individual, targeting their particular pain concerns and prevention.
Timetable
For more information regarding supervised group classes, click here
There are many ways physiotherapy can help you during your pregnancy.
Regardless of when your pain begins and where you are at in your gestation, it is never too soon to seek help.
Get in touch with your Maternal Health Physiotherapist and they will be able to help you on your path to recovery and allow you to enjoy the wonderful experience of pregnancy!
