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During Pregnancy
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Pregnancy is a massive, momentous experience. During this time the body experiences enormous changes. Not only the the increases in weight from the baby, placenta and waters but also from the hormonal changes e.g. the increases in elasticity of the ligaments throughout the body. As a result of this the body is more susceptible to mechanical imbalances occurring and as a result these can lead to discomfort and pain. Some of the problems Osteopathy can help with. Heartburn, as the uterus expand with the baby inside this increases the pressure in the abdominal cavity putting more upward pressure on the diaphragm, this can lead to distortion of the diaphragm, which in turn puts pressure on the oesophagus and stomach leading to an increase in likelihood of heartburn. Osteopathic treatment can help to take out any stresses and strains within the diaphragm and associated tissues which will help to relieve the heartburn. Low back, neck, shoulder, wrist and leg pain, are all common symptoms throughout pregnancy. As the body accommodates and changes to the added weight and size its posture may change leading to imbalances in the mechanics of the body. Osteopathy can help in accommodating the body to these changes and rebalancing the body so as to decrease the pain felt. An important part of preparation for labour is to ensure that the mother's pelvis is structurally balanced to allow easier passage of the baby down the birth canal. Osteopathy can help with this thus increasing the chances of n easy and uncomplicated labour. Osteopathy can also advise the mother on the best positions in labour. After delivery it is advised that both the mother and child return for a check up and advice. Tips during pregnancy Look after your back during pregnancy, due to the softening of the ligaments during pregnancy the back is a lot more mobile and consequently more vulnerable to any stresses and strains you may put it through. Therefore think carefully about how you lift, try to bend your knees when lifting and try not to lift and twist at the same time. When standing for a while tuck your bottom in to reduce the pressure on the lower spine. When sitting down place a small cushion in your back for added support and try to avoid crossing your legs, if you find this hard to do try crossing your ankles as this puts less strain on then crossing your legs completely. This is good advice for everybody. When lying down, if you lie on your side place a pillow under your bump and between your knees, this decreases strain on your pelvis. If you lie on your back place pillow s under your knees to keep them bent. Make sure that all the equipment you use is on the correct level for you. A tip when buying a pram is note if the pram in the shop is raised up. Parents frequently test a pram in a shop thinking it is the right level for them until they get it home and then realise it had been raised up in the shop. To encourage the baby to lie correctly As labour is likely to be more difficult if the baby is not lying correctly it is worth trying to get the baby to move to a better position. The ideal position is with the head downwards facing backwards with his spine curled in the same direction as his mothers spine. Try to keep as active as possible during pregnancy Wall tall pushing your head up as if suspended by a string and do not all your lower back to slump into a hollow position. Sitting in soft chairs encourages the baby to slip into the back to back position, to discourage this try to sit with your bottom into the back of the chair with the lower back supported. The best way is actualy to sit on a foam wedge or on a seat that tilts forwards, this actively encourages the baby to lie correctly If your baby is lying in a breech position or back to back position try spending some time each day in the all fours position as this can sometimes help it to turn. Is Osteopathy safe during pregnancy? Osteopaths are highly skilled practitioners with a minimum of four years training. Gentle osteopathic techniques are very beneficial and perfectly safe in all stages of pregnancy.
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