$Unique_ID{BRK01469} $Pretitle{} $Title{Suggestions For Relief From Back Pains During Pregnancy} $Subject{pregnancy low back treatment pains pain center gravity muscles strain sitting standing pregnant pregnancies lower muscle strained sit stand} $Volume{K-18} $Log{} Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc. Suggestions For Relief From Back Pains During Pregnancy ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ QUESTION: As my pregnancy advances (I am now in my seventh month) I find my back pains are increasing as well. I am sure I am not the first person with this problem, but I haven't really been able to find any decent solutions. I want to stay away from pills, but it is getting to the point where the discomfort is more than annoying. Do you have a suggestion or two that might help me get some relief? ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ANSWER: I doubt that there are many women who escape the problem of low back pain occurring at some time during their pregnancy period. A simple side view is enough to reveal that your center of gravity is changing, moving upward and forward as the baby grows larger. This puts more strain on your back muscles as you strive to walk erect against the weight. Assuming that the pain is not the result of an old condition that existed before your pregnancy, and is not caused by such things as a urinary infection or aggravated by an excessive weight gain, there are a few measures you can take to reduce the discomfort. And I agree with you, forgo any unnecessary medication during this time. The first assignment is to take a good survey of the tasks that cause the greatest pain and seek to alter the way you approach them. If sitting is a problem, check your position in the chair. If your knees are lower than your hips you can be putting extra pressure on your back by tilting your pelvis forward. Try placing a book or block of wood on the floor to rest your feet on, and place a small cushion or folded towel under your thighs to help elevate your knees a bit higher. Standing is better than sitting, so try to keep erect when possible. Avoid jobs that require you to bend over for long periods of time, and raise your work surfaces to a more comfortable level. If you must lift something, keep the load as close to your body as you can. Exercises can be a big help to strengthen your aching muscles, and your obstetrician can advise you about the best ones for you. There are times when a relaxing massage can loosen up those tight muscles and provide just the right prescription that affords the relief you need. ---------------- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical problem.