If you are experiencing back pain during pregnancy, you are not alone; more than 50% of pregnant women experience the same. Most pregnant women feel pain in their lower back during pregnancy, but upper back pain is rare. Lower back pain is a matter of concern as it can restrict your mobility during pregnancy. Find out the actual reason for the upper back pain during pregnancy, which will help you treat it right. Here is a quick outlook on what you must know about upper back pain in pregnancy and ways to relieve it for a pain-free pregnancy.
Upper back pain is a dull pain that develops into intense pain as the day ends for expecting mothers. You may experience lower back pain on one side and some on either side. It is a sharp pain in the upper back, mainly during the 1st and 3rd trimesters. This is due to the growing body and hormonal changes during pregnancy. The pain gets even worse when you stand all day on your feet.
Each body is different, and you may experience upper back pain during pregnancy due to the growing baby and the pressure it puts on the body's muscles. The following can also be one of the causes of your back pain during pregnancy.
Change in Centre of Gravity: When you’re baby grows inside, the uterus grows as well to accommodate the growing baby. This puts extra pressure on your back muscles, causing back pain.
Hormonal Changes: Hormones play a key role in preparing your body for pregnancy. Relaxing, a pregnancy hormone, not only makes your body ready for delivery but also results in side effects like muscle spasms, body aches and back pain.
Stress: Stress during pregnancy can also be a potential cause of upper back pain.
Weight Gain: It is common for pregnant women to gain weight during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, which puts extra pressure on the upper back.
Enlargement of the Breast: During pregnancy, your breasts enlarge due to hormonal changes. This puts pressure on the chest and creates strain on your upper back.
Here are ways to relieve your upper back pain during pregnancy.
Generally, upper back pain during pregnancy is not a serious issue. You must look for the symptoms, and if the pain becomes worse and affects your daily activities, then you must consult your doctor immediately. Back pain might be a serious issue in certain conditions. It can also be a symptom of liver disease or a lung infection. You must rush to your doctor immediately when you suffer upper right shoulder pain. This can be due to high pressure, which can lead to preterm labour.
Prevention is always better than cure, so pregnant women must make certain changes in their lifestyle that help to avoid upper back pain during the 3rd trimester of pregnancy.
The above gives a clear overview of things you must know about upper back pain during pregnancy. Understanding and addressing upper back pain during pregnancy is crucial for maternal well-being. Proper posture, exercises and prenatal care can alleviate discomfort, ensuring a healthier pregnancy journey.
The upper back hurts during pregnancy due to the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy. Other reasons for experiencing too much pain in the upper back are weight gain, growing chest and growing uterus
During pregnancy, you must maintain the right posture to relieve back pain. Sleep on your sides so the growing baby does not put extra pressure on the back. Stand upright without bending your chest or shoulders. Maintain the right sitting posture with proper lumbar support. All this can help you relieve the pain.
You must be concerned about back pain during pregnancy if the pain is unbearable and it disrupts your daily routine. If the pain persists for longer and it's severe, visit your doctor immediately. Seek immediate medical attention if the pain shifts to your upper shoulder, as it can be likely due to high blood pressure.
Some safe home remedies can help ease your back pain during pregnancy. A warm or cold compress can help ease the upper back pain. Prenatal massage can help relieve the muscle spasms caused by the extra pressure on the growing baby.
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