Many physical, mental and hormonal changes take place during pregnancy – and these can put strain on a woman’s body.

In many cases, pain may be due to an undetected problem and the increasing weight of the baby, structural changes and softening of ligaments only highlight this.

The stress of carrying an unborn baby causes the body, spine and pelvis to be particularly vulnerable. Hormonal changes make the pelvis more supple during the latter portion of pregnancy. This instability can lead to other strains being felt in the spine and supporting muscles and ligaments. 

Pregnancy creates new problems, but can also exacerbate existing ones.

Our osteopaths can help during pregnancy by:

• Correcting mechanical disorders of the joints and muscles that can lead to joint and nerve stress. This reduces pain and improves function.
• Maintaining normal joint function and spinal balance. This helps the spine to adapt to the altered posture and weight increase.
• Allowing the joints of the pelvis and lower back to move freely which assists in the birth process. If the musculoskeletal system is functioning at its maximum it enhances the opening of the pelvis.
• Advising the maternity patient on lifestyle including posture and lifting to avoid spinal stress.
• Advising on exercise regimes to help towards spinal health.

The process of childbirth puts tremendous stress and strains on your body.

As the body is more supple for some time after birth due to the hormonal changes, there may be an increased susceptibility to injury.

There is also the added strain on the spine whilst nursing, feeding and caring for the baby.

The osteopaths at Eltham Osteopathy Clinic recommend that new mothers have their spine examined as soon as possible after the birth.

Treating your children once you have given birth is up to the discretion of the osteopath you are seeing. Contact us via email at admin@osteo4u.co.uk or via phone at 020 8294 1113 to inquire as to whether your child can be also be treated.