How osteopathy may assist during pregnancy

Written by: Sarah Lawson, Osteopath

Pregnancy is a time of remarkable change for the body. As your baby grows, your muscles, joints, ligaments, and posture all adapt to support this development. While these changes are completely normal, they can also lead to discomfort and pain for many women.

Osteopathy offers a gentle, hands-on approach that may support the body throughout pregnancy by improving movement, relieving tension, and assisting the body in adapting to these changes.

Why pregnancy may cause pain

During pregnancy, several factors contribute to musculoskeletal discomfort:

• Hormonal changes (particularly relaxin) cause ligaments to soften and joints to become more mobile
• The growing uterus shifts the centre of gravity and changes posture
• Increased weight places a greater load on the spine and pelvis
• Muscles work harder to stabilise the body

These changes can create strain in different areas of the body, particularly the lower back and pelvis.

Common conditions osteopaths see during pregnancy

• Pelvic girdle pain – Pelvic girdle pain is one of the most common complaints during pregnancy. It can cause pain around the sacroiliac joints, hips, buttocks, or pubic bone. Pain may be worse with walking, turning in bed, climbing stairs, or standing on one leg. Osteopathic treatment aims to improve pelvic joint movement and reduce muscle tension around the pelvis.
• Lower back pain – As the baby grows, the lower back experiences increased load and changes in posture. This can lead to muscle tightness, joint stiffness, and persistent aching in the lumbar spine. Osteopathic treatment may help by improving spinal mobility and reducing muscular strain.
• Sciatic or nerve-related pain – Some women experience pain radiating into the buttock or down the leg during pregnancy. This can occur when surrounding muscles become tight and irritate the sciatic nerve. Treatment focuses on reducing muscle tension and improving movement around the pelvis and lower back.
• Rib and mid-back pain – As the uterus expands upward, the rib cage needs to move and widen to make space. This can cause discomfort around the ribs or mid-back. Osteopathic techniques can help improve rib mobility and relieve muscular tension.
• Neck and upper back pain – Changes in posture and increased breast size can place strain on the neck and upper back. This often results in tightness between the shoulder blades or headaches. Gentle treatment may help reduce muscle tension and improve posture.

What does osteopathic treatment during pregnancy involve?

Osteopathic treatment during pregnancy is adapted specifically to ensure comfort and safety. Treatment positions are modified so patients are well supported, often using pillows or side-lying positions. Techniques used are generally gentle and may include:

• Soft tissue massage
• Joint mobilisation
• Stretching techniques
• Advice on posture and sleeping positions
• Exercise and movement guidance

Supporting your body through pregnancy

Osteopathic treatment during pregnancy aims to support the body as it adapts to rapid physical changes. By improving mobility and reducing muscular strain, osteopathy can help women move more comfortably throughout pregnancy. Every pregnancy is different, and treatment is always tailored to the individual and their stage of pregnancy. If you’re experiencing discomfort during pregnancy, osteopathy may assist you to feel more
comfortable and supported as your body changes.

About Sarah Lawson, Osteopath

• Ahpra Registered Osteopath with a 5-year university degree including a Masters in Osteopathy
• Osteopathy Australia Member
• Qualified in dry needling and myofascial cupping
• Shockwave trained
• Additional studies in womens health and pregnancy

The part of osteopathy that Sarah loves most is connecting with you and spending the time to understand your individual needs. She enjoys formulating a plan with you that aligns with your goals. When coming to see Sarah, she will use a holistic approach that takes into consideration lifestyle factors that may be contributing to your condition. She will provide knowledge and empower you to best manage your health and well-being.

Sarah is available 5 days a week:

• Tuesday – AM and PM
• Wednesday – AM and PM
• Thursday – PM
• Friday – AM
• Saturday AM

To book an appointment with Sarah, please click here or call 9830 7044.

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References

https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD001139.pub4/full