The biggest factor for back pain and pregnancy is posture. Slouching
should be avoided at all times, and when sitting, a pillow or rolled
up towel can be used to cushion the lower back. This goes for lounge
chairs as well as rigid chairs. Other strategies to keep a correct
posture include keeping the shoulders back, chin upwards, head
centered over shoulders and using abdominal muscles to maintain a
flat, not arched back. Knees lightly bent and the avoidance of
uncomfortable footwear such as high heels are also helpful.
A simple strategy to avoid back pain after suddenly sitting after a
period lying down is to roll onto one side, then use the arms to
push into an upright position.
As mentioned above, abdominal muscles are important to prevent
arching of the back, and the best way to strengthen them is through
exercise. Your experienced Doctor or midwife will be able to provide
exercises specially designed for pregnant women. Walking for 20-30
minutes each day can also be very helpful.
The need increasing as the pregnancy progresses, rest is also an
important factor. When sleeping, lying on the side is advised with a
pillow between the knees. An extra pillow under the growing tummy
will also take a lot of pressure of the spinal column.
Most of the discomfort women feel in the
later stages of pregnancy can be attributed to back pain, so paying close
attention to avoiding it is paramount. Proper lifting technique should be
observed no matter how heavy the object, that is the legs should be bent at
the knee and the back kept straight at all times. A