Menu

Osteopathy for Pregnant Women in Brighton

What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a form of alternative treatment that involves myofascial release and manual readjustments through massage and the manipulation of bones, muscles, and joints. It provides relief from pain, and improves bodily functions.

Although the structures and functions of the body are independent, they are also interrelated. Osteopathy aims to normalise restricted structures to ensure that the body functions as efficiently as possible.

Common Complaints during pregnancy

Some of the common complaints during pregnancy include:

  • Fatigue
  • Insomnia
  • Headache
  • Shortness of breath
  • High blood pressure
  • Swelling
  • Neck, shoulder, and upper back pain
  • Low back pain
  • Rib pain
  • Pelvic girdle pain
  • Sciatica
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Pubic symphysis dysfunction

How Osteopathy Helps in Pregnancy

During pregnancy, women are advised to be conscious of what they ingest. This includes the drugs they are allowed to take. Osteopathic treatment during and after pregnancy is a safe and drug free approach that can be beneficial for pregnant women. It is helpful in the following ways:

  • Enables the mother’s body to adapt comfortably as the pregnancy progresses.
  • Reduces the physical discomforts of pregnancy.
  • Prepares the body for the demands of labour.
  • Enables the mother recover quickly after delivery.

During Pregnancy

Various changes occur in the body during pregnancy, such as postural changes, increase in weight, and the hormonal softening of ligaments. These changes are meant to accommodate the growing foetus. However, they also brings with them some level of discomfort and pain due to the pressure on the muscles, bones, and joints.

In the first trimester of pregnancy, the pelvis begins to tilt forward so as to make more room for the uterus. This can cause tightness in the thoracic cavity and lower back pain. In the second trimester, there’s increased thoracic and neck curvature due to the enlargement of the breasts. This also puts pressure on the shoulders to move forward. The third trimester is usually the most difficult for the pregnant mother. There’s increased curvature of the lumbar vertebrae, which places more pressure on the lower spine and the pelvis.

Osteopathy can help alleviate some of the discomfort caused by these structural and hormonal adaptations by using techniques designed to support the mother and her baby throughout pregnancy. It also alleviates any joint stiffness that may occur due to reduced movement.

The position of the baby can be affected when there’s an imbalance within the pelvis and pelvic ligaments. Osteopathic care can correct such imbalances. An osteopath advises the mother on:

  • Appropriate posture during pregnancy.
  • Breathing techniques for relaxation so as to reduce stress levels and blood pressure.
  • Exercise and stretches that will help maintain and maximise the comfort of the mother and the wellbeing of the baby.

In Preparation for Labour

An osteopath will examine the spine and pelvis of the mother. For safe delivery, the muscles and pelvic bones must be properly aligned and balanced to provide the optimal conditions for the positioning, descent, and passage of the baby through the birth canal.

Recovery after Pregnancy

Although the process of delivering a baby is totally natural, it can take time for the mother to recover from the postural strains of pregnancy, labour, and finally having to care for the new born baby. Depending on the condition of the mother during labour, there might be a wide range of issues after delivery. Without proper osteopathic care to resolve the effects of pregnancy and labour stress, the new mum might experience on-going back problems, menstrual difficulties, and problems with bowel movement.

After labour, an osteopath will examine the pelvis and supporting tissues to see if there’s proper alignment. Any strains to the lower back and pelvis that may have occurred during labour will be treated. Normal pelvic alignment and mobility will help alleviate any discomfort or pain the mother may be feeling.

After delivery, there’s still continued stress as the mother breastfeeds her baby, bends over the cot, carries her baby around (especially on one side of the hips), and lifts car capsules and prams. With proper postnatal osteopathic care, aches and pains associated with the stress the mother has to undergo while her body recovers from labour can be taken care of.

Osteopathic Techniques for Pregnant Women

The techniques adopted by an osteopath will depend on the medical history of the mother, as well as her symptoms, physical condition, and the type of osteopathic technique she’s most comfortable with.

Techniques will usually involve soft tissue massage to enhance the body’s natural ability to heal itself.

Here are some of the osteopathic techniques that can be used for pregnant women:

  • Cranial osteopathy.
  • Soft tissue massage to alleviate muscle tension.
  • Myofascial stretching. Inhibition/neuromuscular release to alleviate acute muscle spasms without further irritation to inflamed tissues.
  • Articulation or gentle joint movement to improve lubrication and nutrition in and around the joints.
  • Manipulation and mobilisation

As the risks of miscarriage are high in the first trimester of pregnancy, an osteopath will adjust treatments as appropriate. Any form of spinal manipulation is avoided up until the 14th week of pregnancy.clm_2.related-condtion-sec

PREGNANT FAQ’s

How long is each appointment?
Normally, the first session lasts for one hour. A subsequent session will run for 30 – 45 minutes.
Does my insurance cover osteopathy?
Most insurance policies cover osteopathy. However, you ought to confirm with your insurance company first. Some policies entail having a letter of referral from your doctor. If you are using a private health insurance scheme, you should know that osteopathic treatment is under ancillary or extras cover.
How do I identify a qualified osteopathy clinic?
By law, all osteopaths in the UK are required to be registered with the General Osteopathic Council.This council regulates the practice of osteopathy. You can easily check the clinic on the General Osteopathic Council website.
What should I expect on my first visit?
The first thing will be consultation. This will involve the osteopath understanding your medical history, your lifestyle, and general health, your current complaint, and undergoing a series of examinations and tests.
Can I be treated at home?
Yes, you can be treated in your home. For more enquires please call us on XXXX.
What should I bring to my first osteopathic consultation?
You should bring your patient form. You may also bring relevant x-rays, reports, or letters if you wish, but they are not required.
How will I be treated?
Treatment plans are designed to suit specific needs. It depends on your body type, symptoms, health history, and your preferences. Re-evaluation will be done on subsequent consultations. The treatment will involve a variety of osteopathic techniques
Looking for an Osteopath?
Call us today to make enquires about osteopathic care for pregnancy or to book an appointment. Let’s help you on your journey to motherhood

Related Osteopath

Get In Touch.

Want to work with us?