We love being parents, we love being pregnant, we love our children, but that doesn’t mean we have to suffer because of it! We are entitled to live an active, healthy, ache free life in spite of carrying a baby or toddler constantly. To explain this in terms that are easy to associate with, imagine carrying around a bowling ball in your arms, then bounce it a little, all while adoringly staring down at it multiple times a day. Not to forget the activities of putting your adorable little bowling ball in and out of car seat, lifting and then lugging around said car seat. Now with that picture in mind, almost everyone can agree it seems like it might hurt or at least make you sore right? Well, that is exactly what happens when you hold a baby repeatedly and maneuver through the various necessary activities during an average day of a parent or caregiver.

Repeated head forward postures during activities that were just mentioned above, will create tension and repetitive lifting will pull on the positioning and musculature of the neck, shoulder and low back regions. Problems in these areas can be noticed as generalized tension and burning in the muscles, pains or numbness in the arms or hands and even headaches for many individuals. Even though the handling of a child could be considered “light” lifting by some, the repetitive nature of these challenges on the body can result in various difficulties and pains.

And for you moms reading this, let’s reflect on how the actual pregnancy affects posture. We all know the changes that must occur in daily routines to perform the most simple of activities while accommodating for your body with baby on board. Even simple activities such as getting dressed, getting in and out of chairs, and even reaching for an item off the cabinet shelf can become an exercise in patience and creativity.
But pregnant moms don’t need anyone to tell them their posture is changing, you feel it everyday! You just may not understand some of the mechanics involved or realize there are things you can do to help your body deal with those changes without aches and pains. As pregnancy advances and your uterus enlarges, you may likely feel some discomfort along the way. Back pain, round ligament pains and pubic symphysis pains are common complaints. But you don’t have to grin and bear it; there are many things you can do to stop the soreness from getting adjusted to changes in your body mechanics during daily activities. Changes in weight and center of gravity cause changes to your posture and therefore your joint and muscles must work differently. Also the hormonal changes, both during pregnancy and after delivery, cause the ligaments in your body to soften and therefore loosen or make the joints more pliant which leads to a greater potential for injury or aches.

Chiropractic care is a logical place to receive help for such strains and stresses on your posture during pregnancy and for both mom and dad after the baby is born. Some common complaints Chiropractors work to get relief from are neck and shoulder tension and burning, numbness into the arms or legs (sciatica), pubic symphysis pain and round ligament pain. Chiropractors work with your spinal alignment to decrease stress and strain placed on the musculoskeletal system through the everyday challenges of life. The techniques may vary with different chiropractors and whether or not you are pregnant during care. But the purpose and outcome is always improved function and spinal placement through the chiropractic adjustment. This may relate as pain relief and improved movement and energy for you. Chiropractic has long been studied as effective and safe for pain relief and is a wonderful option for many people to find help with their health concerns.
During pregnancy your chiropractor will make special accommodations for your baby belly through the use of an adaptable table or pregnancy pillows. These accommodations are very comfortable and gentle for you while being adjusted.

Pregnancy and Caring for a baby are very rewarding – and very hard work. Like other kinds of work that require lifting, bending, and repetitive motions; it can be harmful to your body. Try these simple tips to prevent problems before they begin and to help control the physical strain of being a parent:
• See a chiropractor! Check on ICPA4kids.org for a certified provider
• Break up times of increased sitting by getting up every 15 to 20 minutes and taking a few steps before repositioning in your chair; this activates the muscles and joints and creates conscience moments of posture awareness. Many people find it helpful to set a timer on their watch or computers to alert them when to take breaks.
• Sleeping on your sides or back is best (if pregnant, it is recommended you avoid sleeping on your back)
• Use a pillow between your legs and to support your “bump” (pregnancy tummy) when sleeping; body pillows are a great investment! If able to sleep on your back, use a pillow under your knees to decrease strain on the low back.
• Keep your legs and hips as parallel/symmetrical as possible when moving or turning in bed
• When standing, stand symmetrically, with your weight evenly distributed through both legs. Don’t lean to the side with all your weight balanced on one leg.
• Sit down to get dressed, especially when having to lift one leg such as when putting on underwear, pants or shoes.
• Avoid ‘straddle’ type movements that place stress on the pelvis. This includes sitting “Indian style” for long periods.
• Keep work surfaces at a comfortable height. Put something under the legs of the changing table, for instance, to raise it if you’re tall.

Related posts:

1. Chiropractic care for back pain during pregnancy, breastfeeding and healthy baby.
2. Dr. Leavitt: It is never too early to have a chiropractic treatment.
3. Premature Baby and Parents Both Breathe Easier After Treatment