Exercises to Relieve Pregnancy Backaches

Backaches in pregnancy can be associated with poor muscle strength in your torso, but may also be associated with other causes. Be sure to check all causes for maximum comfort.

Proper posture: Poor posture is a common cause of backache in pregnancy. The growing weight of the uterus changes the center of gravity and instead of standing straight, women pull their shoulders back, causing an increased curve in the back. To straighten up, you will need to tilt your pelvis forward and lengthen the body keeping hip, elbow and shoulder in a straight line. You can practice this against a wall, checking the amount of curve in your spine with your hand. In proper posture, you will find your stomach and behind stick out less.

Poor Posture The weak abdominal muscles have let the pelvis sag, creating an excessive curve in the back and putting strain on the back muscles.

Good Posture When the abdominal muscles pull the pelvis into the proper alignment, the pressure on the back is decreased and the bulge in the belly seems to shrink.

Strengthen your abdominal muscles: Weak abdominal muscles cause the back to work harder to support the weight of your torso. Spend a few minutes a day doing exercises to strengthen your abdominal muscles.

Pelvic Rocking: This exercise will stretch the back and can give you instant relief from lower backaches.

Tailor Sitting: This sitting position lets you stretch the back instead of putting extra pressure on it.

You May Also Be Interested In: The Coach's Notebook of positions, techniques and tools for labor Pregnancy Nutrition to help you experience a healthy pregnancy. Natural Childbirth Directory to find other websites that will help you prepare to give birth. The Monthly Guide to Pregnancy helps you understand the changes in you and your baby. Birth Challenges helps you learn to navigate through a challenging labor.

© Copyright 2000-2007 Jennifer VanderLaan and Birthing Naturally

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