Back Pain During Pregnancy

Back pain during pregnancy is a common occurrence. There are several contributing causes to why women develop back pain when they are pregnant. Certain circumstances are universal, while others may only apply to some women.

Pregnancy Back Pain

Causes of Back Pain During Pregnancy

* Center of Gravity Change. The protrusive abdomen of a pregnant woman completely changes her center of gravity. The lower back is pulled forward by the extra weight and mass in her abdomen. The distribution of added weight is almost all forward, not centered over a woman�s pelvis. This change puts huge stress on the lower spine, and especially the lower back muscles. This cause is especially apparent in the third trimester.

* Poor Posture. Many women find that their posture changes when they are pregnant. The changes that occur in the distribution of weight pull the lower back forward. In response, many woman will tuck their buttocks in, and try to straighten out their lower back. This posture causes a straightening of the normal lordotic curve. The abdomen is pulling the lumbar spine forward, and increasing the lordotic curve. The posture change is pulling the spine back, and straightening the lordotic curve. The battle back and forth is a prime cause for muscular lower back pain. Other women will allow the abdomen to pull forward too much. They will slouch, and increase the forward pressure on the lower back muscles. This posture will also cause temporary lordosis in the lumbar spine.

* Weight Gain. Besides for the baby weight, it is common for a woman to gain weight during pregnancy. Some weight gain is normal. Excessive weight gain can cause many problems. Back pain during pregnancy is one of the least serious of all the conditions associated with a large weight gain. More mass = more force that is applied to the spine and muscles.

* Hormonal changes contribute to back pain, and other types of pregnancy related discomfort. Chemical changes in a woman�s body change the actual physical structure of her joints, ligaments, and spine. The joints are relaxed and loosened. This can cause arthritis-like symptoms in the spine and elsewhere. The coccyx is also changed, to facilitate an easier birth. The coccyx is normally immobile, but during pregnancy it is free to move about, allowing passage of the baby during birth. This anatomical change can sometimes result in coccyx injury or coccyx pain.

* Activity will increase the above reasons for pain. Leaning forward, for example, will increase the pressure on the lower back. Impact, such as jogging or rigorous walking, will cause the abdomen to move, also increasing muscular pressure in the lumbar back.

* The actual baby can apply pressure to internal organs, bones and nerves as it grows. This is especially true in the third trimester. The baby�s head in particular, can apply pressure to the spine and spinal nerves. It is common for woman to experience surges of back pain, as the baby moves in the womb.

* Weak back muscles will be more affected by structural changes during pregnancy. Women who have a sedentary lifestyle will often have more back pain during pregnancy than active women. Strong lumbar muscles will offer better resistance to the increased pressure during pregnancy.

* Change of activity level can contribute to back pain during pregnancy. Previously active women who become sedentary during pregnancy, might experience more back pain than women who remain active.

Recommendation for Back Pain During Pregnancy.

Remember that the pregnancy is causing the pain. Make sure to associate the back pain with the pregnancy, and not some other problem. Some pain is normal, and if it is tolerable, then relax. Do not obsess over pregnancy back pain. This will create a nocebo effect, and create an opportunity for the pain to continue after the birth. Rather, think of the pain being born out of your body, along with the precious child. It is important to move on from the back pain after pregnancy. Resume a normal and healthy state of mind, and your healthy body will return again, pain free.

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Back Pain During Pregnancy to Home page 6/15/06 Revised 11/9/07