Physical Therapy for Low Back Pain During Pregnancy
Overcoming pain from pregnancy with physical therapy
The American Pregnancy Association estimates that up to 70% of pregnant women have back pain, particularly in the lower back. This common symptom is brought on by a number of things, including hormonal changes and your center of gravity shifting forward due to your baby and bump growing.
Luckily, physical therapy is a safe solution that doesn’t require medication management or more serious medical intervention. Rather, physical therapy applies evidence-based strategies that enhance the process of pregnancy through symptom reduction and greater functionality.
By designing therapy regimens that address strength, flexibility, alignment, and posture, physical therapists can assist you with back pain and other pregnancy-related symptoms. As part of your treatment plan, they will work on effective healing strategies with you during sessions and send you home with exercises to complete on your own time. Our physical therapists at Vitality Women’s Physical Therapy in IL can help resolve your pain safely and comfortably so that you can enjoy your pregnancy to the fullest.
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Why Does Pregnancy Cause Pain?
A woman’s body goes through incredible changes during pregnancy, mentally, emotionally, and physically. Because of the stress pregnancy causes on the body, a pregnant person may experience joint, bone, and muscle pain. During the natural course of pregnancy, the hip and pelvic areas extend to accommodate the growing baby and prepare for delivery which can cause aches and discomfort. This is especially applicable in the later stages of pregnancy.
Common causes of low back pain in pregnancy include:
- Weight gain.
- Posture changes.
- Hormone changes.
- Muscle weakness.
- Stress, both physically and mentally.
Find Relief With Physical Therapy
Your physical therapist at Vitality Women’s Physical Therapy in IL will create a treatment plan that meets your specific needs. PTs are movement experts who can explain underlying causes and healing techniques to find relief. Our team can also provide you with exercises and coping skills to do at home so you can manage your pain anywhere.
Your physical therapist will help build strength and endurance by targeting the hips, back, pelvic floor, and abdomen. By focusing on these areas, you will experience:
- Pain relief
- Increased ability to continue doing the activities you love.
- Smoother recovery post-pregnancy
Diminishing the pain as much as possible helps women to manage and enjoy their pregnancy without getting wrapped up in negative symptoms. Additionally, women should try to maintain a healthy level of physical activity during pregnancy and postpartum. Regular exercise helps to optimize your baby’s development and health, maintain the pregnant person’s health and fitness, and ease postpartum recovery. Exercise also helps to reduce stiff and achy feelings in the back and pelvic areas.
Our physical therapists will develop a personalized treatment program during pregnancy and after birth if needed. They also can recommend a fitness routine and address any other symptoms that may be occurring.
Your physical therapy treatment may include:
- Exercises. The cardiovascular and muscular systems can both benefit greatly from prescribed exercise. Swimming is especially beneficial for its aerobic effects, supporting the baby while relieving pressure on your joints and back. Pelvic floor exercises can similarly assist you in improving the coordination and strength of the pelvic muscles necessary for pregnancy, labor, and delivery. Running or walking is also advantageous. Before beginning a program, be sure to speak with your physical therapist to determine the exercises that are best for you.
- Stretches. Your PT may recommend a variety of yoga poses to ease discomfort, increase your strength and endurance, and promote relaxation.
- Manual, hands-on therapy. Therapeutic massage is a short-term way to reduce pain and tension in the lower back, allowing you to complete other exercises that can help long-term.
Physical therapy treatment not only provides much-needed relief but also works to improve posture, flexibility, and strength.
Get started at Vitality Women’s Physical Therapy in IL today!
Our physical therapists at Vitality Women’s Physical Therapy in IL are experts in the world of pregnancy, postpartum care, and women’s health. Our team works to improve the quality of life by giving patients direct care, patient education, and prescribed movement that appeals to their circumstances.
You can talk to a physical therapist right away to get an evaluation. Visit To find a physical therapist in your region, find a PT.