What to expect
Treatment is adapted to each stage of pregnancy, with you lying on your side or sitting rather than on your front. Techniques are gentle: soft tissue work, mobilisation and stretching. I will show you positions and exercises for sleeping, getting in and out of the car and turning in bed.
Please tell your midwife you are seeing an osteopath, and let me know about any complications in your pregnancy.
After the birth
Feeding, lifting and carrying a baby put a new strain on your neck, shoulders and back. Postnatal treatment can help as your body recovers.
What you can do at home
- Keep your knees together when getting in and out of the car or bed.
- Sit to put on trousers, socks and shoes.
- Sleep with a pillow between your knees.
- Take stairs one step at a time if your pelvis hurts.
See your GP or get urgent help if you have
- Any bleeding, fluid loss or reduced baby movements (contact your maternity unit straight away)
- Back pain with tightenings or cramps before 37 weeks
- Pain with a temperature or burning when passing urine
- Severe headache, vision changes or sudden swelling (contact your maternity unit)
If you are not sure, call NHS 111. Clare will always tell you if she thinks you need to see a doctor rather than an osteopath.
Questions about back pain in pregnancy
Is osteopathy safe in pregnancy?
Gentle osteopathy from a registered osteopath is considered safe for most women at all stages of pregnancy. Treatment is adjusted to you, and I will always ask about your pregnancy first.