13 answers

Alternatives for Meds for Bad Back During pregnancy...accupuncture or Such?

I am only 12 weeks pregnant but my already existing back problems are getting progressively worse. I have a 25 lb toddler that I also cart around quite a bit. I expect my back will only get worse, as it did with my last pregnancy. I go to a chiropractor, but sometimes I feel more sore after a session than before. I have also done PT, with little success because I couldn't make the 2x a week committment (when my hubby was working he was on swing-shifts...and we don't use babysitters).

ANy-hoo...I am looking into alternatives for pain relief during pregnancy. I am able to take some meds, but would prefer to go the natural route if possible. Anyone have any voted for something effective? Something that helped you? Accupuncture? Massage?
I am pretty desperate, as the pain is interfering with my daily life.
Thanks!!!

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I used BIOFREEZE from the chiro's office. The active ingredient is menthol! Temporary but it helped. Or just ice pack after ice pack!

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I am a chiropractor and, in addition to getting adjusted regularly (the more pregnant I was, the more often - once a week for the last 2 months) I used ice on my back every night for most of my pregnancy. It helped tremendously and I was able to treat patients until the day I delivered. Put ice on your back, with a thin towel or paper towel between your skin and the ice for 20 minutes. Wait one hour and repeat. You can ice as often as you want, as long as you leave the 1 hour break between 20 minute applications. Try to limit how much you carry your toddler, too. This is a good time to foster some independence. You will have another little one who needs to be carried everywhere in a few months. My boys are 22 months apart and I encouraged my older son to climb into the car, his car seat by himself, go up and down the stairs with me holding his hand, etc. That was a big help while pregnant and when his brother was born. Good luck.

PS Will your chiropractor let you bring your children to your appointment?

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I have lumbar disc herniations, so I feel your pain (literally!) I was quite fortunate that my back did not get too bad when I was pregnant. When it was bothering me (and I still do this now while I'm nursing) I would either use a heating pad or take a hot shower (making sure the water only hit my back). While it doesn't take the pain completely away, it at least helps a little. I also did lots of stretching every day. Good luck!

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Hi S.,

Contact your local None manual chiropractor.

Write me where you live and I will see which one is close to you.

Get a pregnancy back support too.

Good luck. Hope this helps. D.

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Cranio-Sacral work and accupuncture. I went to CS when I was pregnant (for other issues) and it actually relieved my chronic back pain and so for the first time in years and years, I was pain free. How ironic is that?

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Hi S.

I empathize with you. I have L4/L5 herniation and the pain during my pregnancies was excruciating. I worked FT as a paramedic also and it was horrible. I tried a chiropractor which helped a little in the earlier stages of pregnancy. You could ask your OB if they refer to a chiropracter who specializes in pregnant women, and getting a massage sounds like a good idea anyway. I don't know where you live but the Springfield Health Plex has a certified prenatal masseus.(spelling?) Good Luck.

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Hello,

there are a few things you can do, arnica cream at a health food store is helpful for relieving discomfort,however I'm unsure what your specific back injury is. Also a warm bath obviously and then you could use the cream or you could put 10 drops of lavendar oil in almond oil and rub on your back. You shouldn't put straight essential oil directly on your skin, but I have done it. Check the label on the cream and make sure there is nothing in it that would be harmful in pregnancy. Don't discount the potency of herbs! Oh yeah the big thing stop lifting the toddler. Only hold him while your seated, I had to do that with baby #4. If he wants held...sit down and let him climb up. It is ok for you to preserve yourself, how else will you take care of the 2 children. It's ok to say no to your children, learn it now.

L.

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S.,
I too am a SAHM with major back pain. I get a ton of relief from myofascial release. I go to a PT in Devon who is great. Email me if you want his info.

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pregancy massage. some chiroc offer this in the office.

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