Osteopathic Treatment for Pregnant Women: A Path to Comfort and Well-Being

Written by Osteopath Gemma Ahrens

Pregnancy is a beautiful and life-changing experience, but it can also come with a range of physical discomforts that may affect a woman's quality of life. From back pain to pelvic discomfort, many of these conditions can make the journey of pregnancy challenging. As an osteopath, I’ve seen how osteopathic treatment can provide significant relief and enhance the overall pregnancy experience.

Common Pregnancy-Related Conditions Osteopathy Can Address

Some of the most common conditions that osteopaths treat during pregnancy include:

Low Back and Pelvic Pain: 

As the pregnancy progresses, the growing belly causes changes in posture, increasing the strain on the lower back and pelvis. The body’s centre of gravity shifts forward, and in many cases, this results in lower back and pelvic pain. Some women may also experience pain radiating down the back of the leg caused by pressure on the sciatic nerve. Osteopaths may work on the spine and pelvis to aid in alleviating this pressure.

Neck and Shoulder Tension: 

Postural changes during pregnancy may put more strain on the upper back, shoulders, and neck. The result can be tension or pain in these areas. Osteopathy may release tension in the muscles and joints and restore balance to the body.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: 

Pregnancy hormones may lead to fluid retention, which in turn can place pressure on the median nerve in the wrist, leading to tingling, numbness, or pain—commonly known as carpal tunnel syndrome. Osteopathic treatment may help relieve this pressure and improve circulation.

Constipation and Digestive Issues: 

Hormonal changes during pregnancy may slow down digestion, leading to constipation. Gentle osteopathic techniques on the abdominal area may help improve circulation and the functioning of the digestive system, easing discomfort.

Breathing Difficulties: 

As the baby grows, there is less room for the diaphragm to expand. This can make breathing feel more laboured and cause tension in the ribcage, especially as pregnancy progresses. Osteopathy may help open up the ribcage and diaphragm, aiding in better respiratory function.

Other Benefits of Osteopathy During Pregnancy

Osteopathy aims to restore balance to the body and alleviate discomfort. For pregnant women, osteopathic treatment may improve quality of life in several important ways:

Reducing Pain and Discomfort:

Through gentle manipulation of the spine, joints, and muscles, osteopathy may help reduce the pain associated with pregnancy-related conditions like back pain, pelvic pain, and sciatic discomfort.

Enhancing Mobility: 

Osteopathic techniques may help maintain flexibility and mobility, especially in the hips and pelvis, areas that can become restricted due to pregnancy. This is important for maintaining everyday function, such as walking or sleeping comfortably.

Improving Posture: 

As the pregnancy progresses, changes in posture can lead to discomfort. Osteopathic treatment aims to help restore balance and alignment to the body, reducing strain on the back, neck, and shoulders.

Promoting Relaxation: 

Pregnancy can be stressful, both physically and emotionally. Osteopathic techniques work to promote relaxation and help manage stress levels, contributing to an overall sense of well-being.

Supporting the Body’s Changing Dynamics: 

Osteopathy works to ensure that the body is in optimal alignment, which supports the natural changes that come with pregnancy. This may help prevent long-term complications and facilitate a smoother delivery.

Osteopathic Techniques Used During Pregnancy

Osteopaths use a variety of gentle and safe techniques to treat pregnant women, ensuring the comfort and safety of both the mother and the baby. Common osteopathic treatments for pregnancy include:

Gentle Soft Tissue Techniques: 

These involve the application of gentle pressure to relax muscles and soft tissues, helping to ease tension and reduce discomfort.

Joint Mobilisation and Adjustments: 

Osteopaths use these techniques to gently move the joints within their normal range of motion, helping to restore mobility and reduce stiffness in areas like the back and pelvis.

Myofascial Release: 

This technique focuses on releasing tension in the connective tissue, or fascia, which can become tight or restricted during pregnancy. This is particularly effective for relieving back and neck pain.

Visceral Manipulation: 

This technique focuses on the internal organs, such as the digestive system. It may help alleviate discomfort related to indigestion or constipation, which is common during pregnancy.

Pelvic and Sacral Techniques: 

These focus on the pelvis and sacrum, areas that undergo significant changes during pregnancy. By ensuring these areas are aligned and functioning properly, osteopaths may help alleviate pelvic pain and improve overall comfort.

Pregnancy should be a time of excitement and anticipation, but it often comes with its own set of physical challenges. Osteopathic treatment provides an effective, non-invasive way to address many of the common conditions that arise during pregnancy, improving both comfort and mobility. Whether it's alleviating back pain, easing tension, or helping with digestive issues, osteopathy can play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life during this important time.

If you’re pregnant and struggling with discomfort, or know someone who is, consider consulting an osteopath. With the right treatment, you can experience a more comfortable, balanced, and enjoyable pregnancy.

You can book an appointment with Gemma by clicking below. Alternatively, give us a call on 0425 876 929 and we can discuss your needs.

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References:

Royal College of Osteopaths. (2022). Osteopathy and Pregnancy. Retrieved from: https://www.osteopathy.org.uk

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). (2021). Pelvic Girdle Pain in Pregnancy. Retrieved from: https://www.nice.org.uk

Franke, H., Franke, J. D., & Fryer, G. (2015). Osteopathic manipulative treatment for low back pain during pregnancy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 19(2), 310–317.

Licciardone, J. C. (2010). Osteopathic manipulative treatment in pregnant women. The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association, 110(11), 646–652.

Liem, T. (2017). Cranial Osteopathy: Principles and Practice. Handspring Publishing.