While aches and pains might just seem like a normal part of pregnancy, it’s not something that women should have to just put up with; however, many do without ever seeking care. An osteopath can be the perfect physician for pregnant women to turn to when dealing with musculoskeletal complaints (and we know most expectant mothers will experience them).
What problems can OMT treat in pregnancy?
As any pregnant woman can tell you, pregnancy can certainly put a lot of strain and pressure on the body. In return, you may be dealing with either localized or more widespread discomfort. Whatever type of pregnancy pains you’re dealing with, an osteopath can provide the hands-on care you need to alleviate common complaints such as,
- Back and neck pain
- Pelvic and groin pain
- Hip pain
- Shoulder pain
- Swollen ankles
- Sciatica
- Rib pain
- Carpal tunnel
Along with these musculoskeletal issues that we often see in pregnant patients, regular osteopathic medicine can also improve other conditions and symptoms including,
- High blood pressure
- Insomnia
- Headaches and migraines
- Stress and anxiety
- Depression
- Heartburn and acid reflux
- Fatigue
What is osteopathic treatment?
Osteopathic therapy is a hands-on manipulative therapy that focuses on realigning the body so that it functions properly as a whole. Osteopathic medicine is considered a natural or alternative therapy. Through stretching and placing your body into certain positions, we can reduce strain, pain, and pressure placed on the ligaments, tendons, and muscles.
By taking pressure off certain areas of the body, an osteopath can also improve circulation. Increased blood flow to these areas delivers the vital nutrients that the soft tissue needs to heal properly and to reduce inflammation. In essence, regular osteopathic treatments can speed up the body’s natural healing processes so that you feel better faster.
A variety of techniques may be employed during your treatment session, including,
- Cranial/biodynamic technique
- Sacral-sternal release
- Soft-tissue massage
- Subcostal visceral release
- Myofascial release
Since certain pain medications aren’t safe for women to take while pregnant, osteopathic manipulative therapy is a safe, effective, and non-medicinal option that can help alleviate pain.
If you’re sick and tired of feeling so achy and sore all the time, an osteopath can ease your symptoms with safe, effective techniques that can provide you with relief. Osteopathic manipulative therapy can help pregnant women feel more comfortable by combating those pesky aches, pains, and muscle spasms.