With thanks to the General Osteopathic Council
for kind permission to use information from their publications.
Osteopathy and pregnancy
Pregnancy is often a
challenging time for women. Her body will undergo massive postural
changes. As a baby grows it alters the centre of gravity of the body from
week to week. Also changes in weight and breast size often affect the
body. The most common complaints that osteopathy can help with are:
Low back
and leg pain
Neck and
shoulder pain
Thoracic
discomfort and indigestion
Wrist
pain
Post
natal problems of the pelvis
How does
osteopathy help?
The
osteopath will take into account the individual posture and body type in
relation to the physiological changes that occur in pregnancy. Obviously
the safety of the mother and child is our first concern. Our osteopath will
help improve the function of the musculoskeletal system to reduce stresses
and strains related to the pregnancy. Our osteopath will also consider the
mother’s emotional state and may give exercises to help with relaxation as
well as postural exercises. Our osteopath can also help after the delivery
to help your body to return to its normal function.
General
advice during pregnancy
Low back and leg pain
Use
your legs rather than your back when lifting and carrying
Do
not carry a child on the same hip
When
standing for any length of time tuck your bottom in
Avoid crossing your legs and twisting movements
When
sleeping, lie on your side and tuck a pillow under your belly and put a
pillow in between your knees
