Pregnancy Discomforts

I’m often asked why do I get joint pain when I’m pregnant?

Well, there’s a variety of reasons. Relaxin is a hormone that’s released all through pregnancy- it helps the embryo implant in the uterus and it also helps the ligaments and other soft tissues of the body relax and become more “stretchy” to allow the amazing changes of pregnancy to occur! It also softens the ligaments around the pelvis to soften so the pelvis can open up more to allow your baby to move down the birth canal. Relaxin is very much a friend to the pregnant woman! But….. this extra stretchiness in the soft tissues can also allow some hypermobility in the joints which can be uncomfortable or even painful for some women. The joints which are most affected are the pubic symphysis and the sacroiliac joints, but also the back, feet, knees, and even thumbs!

If you develop gestational diabetes you may also be at higher risk of developing some pelvic discomfort.

In addition to the effects of the relaxing the extra weight you carry during pregnancy and the changes to your posture as your baby grows may place extra stress on your soft tissues and joints.

There are many ways that a physio can help you with these aches and pains. Advice regarding activity, postural, and lifestyle modifications may help, as can massage and manual therapy, pelvic stability supports, exercises, heat/ice, and acupuncture.

Have a good nutritious diet, adequate sleep and relaxation, and try not to put on excessive weight.

Give me a call and we can develop a plan to help you with your pregnancy discomforts.