Managing Back Pain During Pregnancy

The joys of bringing a baby into this world can easily be destroyed by the overwhelming back pain which often accompanies being with child. That said, it isn't too hard to ensure that back pain never becomes a problem while you are pregnant. The simple tips below will help you have a happy pregnancy which is free of back pain.

So, why does my back hurt anyway? The extra weight you are carrying up front, both due to your baby's growing body and your breasts becoming engorged with milk, literally tips you forward. You have to lean backwards to compensate for this, and that puts added strain on your back. As long as you are pregnant, you will have to deal with this posture problem.

The first step to remedy this problem is to try to correct your posture. Stand up as straight as you can, keeping your chest out and your shoulders relaxed and held back. Do the same when you sit in a chair to avoid slouching and the accompanying back problems. Keep your knees slightly bent at all times as locked knees can also cause your back to be held incorrectly.

Shoes play a huge role in pregnancy-related back pain as well. If you are not wearing comfortable, properly fitted shoes, you may not walk correctly and that will add pressure on your back. Don't wear high heels, choose shoes with good arch support and make sure that they fit properly. Shoes which tie up give you extra room if your feet swell and are therefore an excellent choice.

Your pants may also affect your back pain. High waists and tight waists put pressure not only on your growing baby, but also your back. Wear loose fitting pants with an elastic waistband to give yourself the comfort you need.

Just like when you weren't pregnant, lifting heavy objects with your back can strain it. Bend at the knees and lift carefully. Don't overdo it as you can actually cause harm to your baby if you life an item which is too heavy! Protect both baby and back by asking for help when you need it.

As your tummy grows, sleeping on your back or stomach can become very difficult. Sleep on your side to allow your growing tummy the space it needs to expand. This will put less pressure on your back as well, and the pain you may feel when you wake up in the morning should be reduced. You can buy a body pillow which aligns your back by placing your legs in the right posture for perfect spinal alignment, and that can give you added pain relief, too.

The time is coming for you to have an amazing bundle of joy brought to your life, but if your back is already in pain, life with a newborn will be just as miserable. Deal with the pain today by following these tips to the "T". When your back feels better, you'll find greater happiness in being pregnant as well.