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Laboring Over Low Back Pain
As if pregnancy isn't challenging enough, with all
of its emotional ups and downs, weight gain, etc., recent evidence
suggests that low back pain (LBP) is a major factor as well. A
36-question survey of 950 pregnant women presenting at various
prenatal care clinics and educational classes in Connecticut
revealed that 70 percent of respondents experienced LBP at some
point during their terms.
Anonymous surveys were distributed to pregnant women participating
in prenatal classes throughout New Haven County, Conn., over a
period of 18 months. The surveys found that LBP was more common
among younger pregnant women, and those with a history of LBP both
during and independent of previous pregnancies. Survey respondents
also indicated that LBP had negatively affected sleep patterns and
some daily activities. Of the women who reported their LBP to
their doctors, only 25 percent received treatment recommendations.
These results show that LBP is prevalent during pregnancy; sadly,
however, it seems that few of these patients' primary care
providers did much to help. Pregnancy notwithstanding, LBP can be
disruptive if left untreated. Don't let LBP take the joy out of
your pregnancy. Your doctor of chiropractic can recommend a safe
and gentle treatment plan.
Reference:
Wang SM, Dezinno P, Maranets I, et al. Low back pain during
pregnancy: prevalence, risk factors, and outcomes. Obstet
Gynecol July 2004;104(1):65-70. |
