LOWER BACK PAIN DURING PREGNANCY

LOWER BACK PAIN DURING PREGNANCY

Self-help suggestions

Exercise
Gentle exercise, such as walking and stretching, may relieve stiffness and pain. However, don’t force yourself to keep walking if you are in pain. Take a rest, or you may strain your ligaments further. Swimming can help too, but avoid breaststroke unless your face is completely in the water, so that your neck and spine are in a straight line. Yoga, or relaxation classes may be helpful, but always let the teacher know that you are pregnant.

Massage
Gentle massage can ease some backache, but the effects tend to be temporary. If your husband gives you a massage, don’t let him massage deeply in the dimples either side of your lower spine, as there are acupuncture points here that can stimulate contractions. If you have sciatica, avoid massaging directly over the affected area until the cause is known, as this can worsen the condition in some women.

Warmth
Use a warm (but not hot) water bottle, or make a compress with warm water. Soak a cloth in this water and place it over the small of your back.

Homeopathy
If the pain is made worse because of injury or strain, gently rub homeopathic arnica cream into the area. Other homeopathic remedies that can be useful include nuxvomica. Try taking it in the 30c strength, if the pain is aching, dragging and bruise-like, but you have constipation and you are irritable and refuse to ‘give in’ to the pain.

Sepia may work if you feel as if you have been ‘hit by a hammer’, are run down, exhausted and feel worse when you are bending down or sitting, better if you walk about.

If your symptoms don’t improve after a few days, consult a registered qualified homeopath.