Back Pain During the Third Trimester: Causes and Tips to Get Relief

The third trimester can be a happy period, however, sometimes your baby’s growth can lead to some uncomfortable sensations. Back pain is especially typical at this stage of pregnancy due to all the alterations that your body experiences when gaining weight and changing posture, balance and hormones.

Collaborating with a pregnancy back pain chiropractor may give you a chance to get help regarding some musculoskeletal issues. At Blooming Chiropractic, you will be able to talk about your problems and choose an appropriate treatment plan to make your period as comfortable as possible before the delivery.

Why Is It Typical to Experience Back Pain During the Third Trimester?

As the pregnancy progresses, there will be considerable changes taking place within the body. One such change will be that of the growing abdomen which alters the center of gravity forward, changing the way you stand, walk, and sit. Such adjustments can add strain to the muscles and joints of the lower back.

There are also changes taking place at the hormonal level. During pregnancy, hormones are released in the body in order to get the pelvic region ready for delivery. While it is essential, it can also cause joint mobility leading to instability and pain.

Growth of Baby and Added Weight

Added weight that results from the growth of the baby may add load on the back and the pelvis. There may be increased activity of the muscles in an effort to keep you in balance, especially when standing or walking for long periods of time.

As the abdomen increases in size, the person tries to compensate for the change in his center of gravity by leaning backwards. This change in posture results in fatigue of the muscles and lower back pain.

Posture Changes During Pregnancy

Your posture might change as a result of pregnancy without you even knowing about it. It may happen due to sitting too much, improper standing position or leaning backwards that causes additional pressure on the lumbar area.

It is important to learn how to assume the right posture so as to avoid any additional strain on the back. It is important to remember that this posture should happen automatically and not through any form of effort.

Causes of Back Pain During Third Trimester

Muscle and Ligament Strain

The muscles which aid in holding the spine and pelvis together may be overworked due to the extra weight. Activities such as going up the stairs, getting up from bed, or even bending down to pick up an object are made more challenging.

Additionally, the ligaments around the pelvis become more flexible due to hormonal changes. Flexibility might affect the feeling of the pelvis and surrounding joints while moving.

Lower Back and Pelvis Issues

The muscles of the lower back and pelvis interact to provide proper function and balance. As the pregnancy continues, some changes may occur in pelvic alignment and mechanics, which might lead to discomfort in the lower back, and hips.

A pregnancy back pain chiropractor will be able to identify some musculoskeletal factors, which can help to determine the need for chiropractic treatment of the problem in your case.

Sciatica and Nerve-Related Symptoms

Some expectant mothers may have a sharp pain from the lower back radiating to the leg. Such a pain is likely connected with sciatic nerve compression or irritation.

This symptom can differ from woman to woman. It is important to pay attention to any signs of serious condition, such as muscle weakness, numbness, or severe pain, and consult a doctor.

Pregnancy Back Pain Remedies That Are Safe

In order to cope with pain in the lower back in the third trimester of pregnancy, there are a variety of approaches. One should bear in mind that some of them will not suit you.

Stay Physically Active

Provided that there are no restrictions by your physician against exercise, you may attempt to remain physically active. This includes walking or doing any other kind of exercise as prescribed by your health care provider. It is a way of avoiding stiff muscles.

Try not to exert yourself to a point where you feel severe pain.

Sleeping Posture Improvement

Getting a comfortable sleeping posture becomes harder as your belly grows larger. Some women during pregnancy feel comfortable sleeping on their sides. Using pillows correctly you can make sure that it will be easier for you to have a comfortable position while sleeping.

Heat Therapy

Use of a warm compress may help in muscle relaxation. Be careful with heat and follow the instructions from your doctor regarding the application of heat when pregnant. If you are in doubt about any particular pain management technique, seek further clarification from your obstetrician or health care professional.

How Chiropractic Treatment Could Help?

What to Anticipate in the Treatment?

During a chiropractic session, you could have a conversation with the chiropractor about your pain and pregnancy, daily activities, and concerns. Thereafter, the chiropractor may conduct an appropriate physical examination in order to ascertain your suitability for the treatment.

The treatment plan can be adapted to the process of pregnancy instead of taking the one-size-fits-all approach. Positioning and soft techniques could be used where it is possible.

Using Chiropractic Care Together with Other Methods

Chiropractic care is not the only approach that can be used to deal with back pain. There are opportunities to integrate the use of this method with proper exercise, stretches, postures, resting, and consultation from your prenatal healthcare provider.

The pregnancy back pain chiropractor may advise you on some other activities to support your treatment at home. Making sure your healthcare providers know what treatment you are undergoing will help coordinate your prenatal care effectively.

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Conclusion

Back pain during the third trimester could be due to a variety of normal things that occur during pregnancy, such as added weight, postural changes, muscle tension, and pelvic changes. Fortunately, some simple things like exercising, sleeping correctly, good posture, and proper self-care could help reduce the daily pain.