As women, we are often taught to tuck the pelvis for stability and decrease the lumbar curve. This is often the focus of yoga and pilates to find a neutral spine. So what happens when this can’t happen to accommodate a baby whilst pregnant? The hormone relaxin does what it says on the tin and relaxes soft tissues in the body, often causing hypermobility. Hypermobile joints allow movement beyond their normal range which puts undue pressure on the muscles supporting that area.

What are the main issues treated?

As the primary focus of relaxin is to soften the pelvis this can result in lower back pain and for some women pelvic girdle pain (PGP) or symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD) can occur. This can also lead to sciatic symptoms where the nerve that runs down the leg gets intermittently trapped and is referred to as ‘lightning crutch’ by midwives due to its electric nature. Some women will be advised to wear maternity support belts and others find pregnancy yoga very effective to keep the pelvis comfortable.

How can Massage help?

Pregnancy Massage is a wonderful complementary choice for pre and postnatal care. It is a healthy way to reduce stress and promote overall wellbeing. Massage can reduce some of the discomforts experienced during Pregnancy such as back ache, neck stiffness, leg cramps, headaches and swelling. When performed during pregnancy, massage therapy can reduce anxiety, decrease symptoms of depression, relieve muscles aches and joint pain.

How will the treatment be performed?

– During the treatment a side lying position is adopted with appropriate cushioning.

– Massage is only performed after the first trimester.

– Postnatal includes the six week period after birth.

Here at Good Health Centre our therapist Harriet has 17 years experience of working with pregnant clients through both Massage and Reflexology.  She has helped many women through their pregnancy and even some in labour! To book in online please visit https://goodhealthcentre.co.uk/book-an-appointment/.