Musculoskeletal discomforts that arise during pregnancy and the postpartum period, commonly including lower back pain, sciatica, pelvic girdle pain, and neck/shoulder pain from feeding.
Virginia Joint & Spine Center is your ideal destination. Our team of medical providers and healthcare doctors collaborate together within a single facility to offer our patients the most effective combination of care for osteoarthritis patients.
Who Typically Suffers
Pregnant women and new mothers in the weeks or months following childbirth.
What Causes It
Hormonal changes (specifically the hormone "relaxin" which loosens ligaments), a rapidly shifting center of gravity, weight gain, and the physical demands of carrying and nursing a newborn.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is physical therapy or chiropractic care safe during pregnancy?
Yes, as long as it is performed by a practitioner trained in prenatal care, it can be highly effective for managing pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes prenatal or postnatal musculoskeletal pain?
Prenatal or postnatal musculoskeletal pain can develop for several reasons, including changes in posture, ligament laxity, altered gait, muscle fatigue, delivery-related strain, feeding positions, or lifting demands. The location of pain alone does not always identify the source. A focused history and examination can help distinguish a local joint or soft-tissue problem from referred pain, nerve involvement, or a condition that needs medical testing.
When should I seek care for prenatal or postnatal musculoskeletal pain?
Schedule an evaluation when lower-back, pelvic, hip, neck, or shoulder discomfort during pregnancy or after delivery persist, recur, limit sleep or daily activity, or follow an injury. Seek urgent medical attention for severe trauma, fever, unexplained weight loss, new weakness, loss of coordination, chest pain, or loss of bowel or bladder control.
How is prenatal or postnatal musculoskeletal pain evaluated?
An evaluation typically includes questions about when symptoms began, activities that worsen or relieve them, prior injuries, and relevant medical history. The provider may assess mobility, strength, sensation, balance, posture, or movement patterns. Imaging or referral may be recommended when the examination suggests it is necessary.
What non-surgical treatments may help prenatal or postnatal musculoskeletal pain?
Treatment depends on the diagnosis and may include education, activity modification, chiropractic or manual care, therapeutic exercise, rehabilitation, and medical treatments when appropriate. The plan should focus on using pregnancy-appropriate techniques, supporting mobility and strength, and coordinating with the obstetric care team. No single treatment is right for every patient.
How long does improvement from prenatal or postnatal musculoskeletal pain take?
Recovery time varies with the cause, severity, duration, overall health, work or activity demands, and consistency with the care plan. Some symptoms improve within a few visits, while long-standing conditions may require more time. Progress should be reassessed using pain, mobility, strength, and functional goals.
