Back pain is the most common condition that we see at Longevity Nexum Kinesiology in Barrie. During pregnancy, we are particularly susceptible to back pain and it can be experienced during any trimester. Longevity Nexum discuss the common reasons as to why back pain occurs during pregnancy and how exercise can be used to help manage this pain.

Some likely causes of back pain during pregnancy:

  • Increase in weight growing a baby. This puts extra load on the spine and surrounding muscles to support the increase in weight.
  • Posture changes. Pregnancy shifts a woman’s centre of gravity and the position of the baby can cause a more anterior tilt of the pelvis. As a result, this can place extra pressure on the lower back. 
  • Hormone changes. Hormones are released to relax the ligaments in the pelvic area in preparation for birth. Looser ligaments around the spine can lead to instability and pain. 
  • Stress. Back pain can increase during periods of high stress. 
  • Standing or sitting for a long time. Try to break up long periods of standing or sitting with some gentle stretches. 

Regular exercise is very important to keep the back and surrounding muscles strong to support the growing baby. The type and intensity of exercises that are appropriate will differ greatly for every woman. Kinesiologists are trained to help women find strength exercises and stretches that can help relieve and manage back pain.

It’s important to have an Exercise Physiologist or Registered Kinesiologist supervise exercise to ensure correct movement patterns, breathing and engagement of muscles during movements.

Below are 4 common exercises that can help relieve back pain. These should be performed with the guidance of a health professional. 

1. Cat Camel. Resting on hands and knees, gently round your back and tuck your chin. Then let your back arch and extend your head up to the ceiling. Repeat 5-10 times.

2. Pelvic tilts. Performed sitting, standing or lying depending on trimester or preference. Gently draw your belly button to your spine and tuck your hips under. Allow your hips to slightly rotate forward or back to neutral position. Repeat 5-10 times.

pastedGraphic.png
Longevity Kinesiologist demonstrating pelvic tilts

3. Seated side stretch. Stretch one arm overhead and lean over as if you are reaching for something. Hold for 10-20 secs each side, breathing normally throughout the stretch. Repeat 2-3 times each side.

4. Glute Bridges. During first trimester glute bridges can be performed to maintain strength of the glutes, hamstrings and lower back. Lying on your back with knees bent, squeeze the glutes and lift the hips up to the ceiling.

pastedGraphic_1.png
Our kinesiologist demonstrating a glute bridge

If you or someone you know is struggling with back pain during or post pregnancy, Longevity Nexum Kinesiologists are here to help. Book yourself in here Call us on (905) 244-3075 to find out how we can help you!