Osteopathy in pregnancy

Osteopathy in Pregnancy

A Whole Body Approach

Osteopaths spend four to five years training to understand the relationship between the body's organs, joints and muscles. Given the unique stresses pregnancy puts upon the body, osteopaths are well suited to diagnosing and helping you with some of the problems you may experience when you are expecting.

Common Pregnancy Complaints

Many pregnant women experience pelvic or back pain. Common symptoms my include:

Generalised muscular back pain

SPD (Symphasis Pubis Dysfunction)- pain or discomfort in the joint at the front of the pelvis

Sacro Iliac Joint pain- occurring in the lower back

Sciatica and leg pain associated with back pain

Rib and thoracic spinal problems leading to breathlessness and difficulty in deep breathing

Neck aches and headaches

Many commonly used medications for these symptoms are often not recommended for a pregnant or breast-feeding mother. Osteopathy offers an alternative approach to help you deal with these common conditions

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"I have been visiting Angela and her Team for many years. I can remember my first appointment – it was a shock to the system, but afterwards I felt as if I was floating down Gelliwastad Road – having been released from pain I had been in for sometime. Angela treated me throughout my second pregnancy – during which I had a number of back and pelvic problems. And she got me feeling a bit more back to 'normal' after the birth. It never fails to amaze me how she always gets straight to the problem area. If you are suffering – make an appointment ! Not only will you receive a professional and friendly service, in addition to your appointment (which will most likely make you feel so much better) you will also come away with advice and guidance that will help you either solve the problem or significantly alleviate your symptoms."

L.E.

Personal Treatment for a Natural Pregnancy

Every patient's problems are unique, and your treatment will be specific to your symptoms. Osteopaths use a wide range of hands-on techniques. These will vary depending on your age, fitness and diagnosis, but will focus on bodily tension, stretching muscles and mobilising joints.

You may wish to discuss with your osteopath how many treatments are likely to be necessary, and how frequently you may feel you would benefit from osteopathic treatment. Some new mothers like to return for follow-up osteopathic treatment after being discharged by their obstetrician or midwife. Some of our osteopaths are also trained to assess babies; speak to the receptionist if you would like to make an appointment for your child.

It's quite normal to get some discomfort during and directly after a pregnancy, and whilst usually nothing serious, it's natural to worry about what might be causing your symptoms. Your osteopath will discuss any concerns you have as part of your examination and will advise you on any further action that might be required.

"At 38 weeks pregnant I booked an emergency appointment as my back had flared up and I had serious trouble even walking. I had an appointment the very next day, and after some gentle stretches and manipulation the flare up was gone - I could have skipped out of the clinic I was so happy! I didn’t even need a second appointment. Our beautiful little girl was born not too long after. I can’t thank you enough!

Cerys D, Pontypridd"

A Few Things to Remember

Take particular care when lifting or carrying things. This is especially important if you're already a mother- try not to carry a small child on one hip for any length of time

If standing for any length of time, vary your position frequently. Avoid sitting for prolonged periods if possible, and try getting up and moving around