Every pregnancy is different! Some women glide right through 40 weeks without a problem. Others may be susceptible to aches and pains that come with the great physical changes that their bodies withstand.

The biggest change is the ever-growing weight in the abdomen that is constantly carried around. This 24-hour a day job needs to be maintained and balanced by the other side of the body: the low back. This can become the cause of the infamous low back pain and sciatica experienced by many future moms.
 

Another particular problem is the increasing elasticity of the ligaments, especially around the pelvis. Due to the presence of pregnancy hormons, the body automatically allows the ligaments to become more malleable and stretchy to permit the abdomen and pelvis to adapt to the growing baby, however this change may simultaneously translate into instability of the surrounding joints. Now, if the joints start to lose stability and strength, this can become uncomfortable and painful.
 

How do you manage this and preserve your and baby's health? Manual therapy is an important facet of care - some aches and pains can be better understod and treated by certified professionals, like a chiropractor. Regular exercise, not exceeding levels before pregnancy, can also help to keep pain at bay and maintain cardiovascular health and strength. In addition, it also helps future moms return to their pre-pregnancy weight faster. Controlling nutrition is important, since baby eats what you eat! Adopting the "I'm eating for two" mentality doesn't work.
 

Chiropractic can help these aspects of a pregnant woman's health by treating pain, prescribing appropriate physical activity and lifestyle modifications and preparing the woman for the changes ahead. Every woman deserves to enjoy the bliss of maternity, far from apprehension and pain. Don't let discomfort interfere with your special and unique moments!
 

Other common pregnancy-related complaints include:

• Hip pain

• Swollen ankles

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

• Neck pain

• Rib pain

• Plantar Fasciitis