Pregnancy and childbirth increase susceptibility to lumbar misalignment
80% of back pain during pregnancy and postpartum is caused by misalignment of the small joints in the lumbar spine.During late pregnancy, increased secretion of progesterone and relaxin hormones causes pelvic ligaments to loosen for easier childbirth. Simultaneously, lumbar ligaments also become relaxed, making misalignment more likely with poor posture.Additionally, as the fetus grows and amniotic fluid accumulates, the load on the pregnant woman's waist and abdomen gradually increases. This naturally pulls the lumbar spine forward, making it prone to misalignment. Once the biomechanical structure of the lumbar spine changes, pressure on the intervertebral discs increases. Over time, this also carries the risk of lumbar disc herniation.
Postpartum symptoms like lower back and leg pain, or numbness in the lower limbs—commonly referred to as "postpartum wind" in folk terms—may also be linked to lumbar spine issues. After delivery, progesterone and relaxin levels don't immediately return to normal; this often involves a gradual process.Therefore, ligaments remain relatively lax during the postpartum confinement period. During this time, poor breastfeeding posture, prolonged bending forward, or stooping can easily cause lumbar joint misalignment. Ignoring Pre-pregnancy Back Pain Can Lead to Serious Consequences Xiao Chen, an office secretary, occasionally experienced back pain. Because the symptoms were mild and she was busy with work, she never sought medical attention.Early this year, she became pregnant. As her belly grew larger, the back pain intensified, eventually becoming so severe that she could only stand up by holding onto nearby objects. The doctor diagnosed her with lumbar joint dislocation. However, due to the unsuitability of medication during pregnancy, it took some effort to find a rehabilitation specialist. After manual realignment, her condition improved, and she gave birth smoothly.
Like Xiao Chen, those who ultimately deliver vaginally are quite fortunate. Many pregnant women experience mild early symptoms—occasional back soreness or aches—that go unnoticed. They often seek medical help only when the pain becomes unbearable, but by then it's usually mid-to-late pregnancy. Doctors generally advise against treatment to avoid inducing miscarriage. Consequently, expectant mothers endure prolonged suffering, compounded by labor pains, which inevitably complicates the delivery.Postpartum mothers with unhealed trauma who are breastfeeding may face similar challenges: limited mobility and restricted medication options hinder physical recovery and can lead to emotional distress.
Pre-pregnancy Lumbar Spine Screening: A Necessary Precaution
To ensure a smooth pregnancy and delivery, women planning to conceive are advised to "prevent problems before they arise."If occasional lower back pain occurs, address it before pregnancy through methods like massage, acupuncture, or physical therapy. Even women without prior back pain should undergo lumbar spine screening. Minor joint misalignments may not yet compress nerves, causing no immediate discomfort. However, without attention, increased physical strain during pregnancy can worsen these misalignments, potentially irritating nerves and triggering lumbar spine disorders.
Women of childbearing age should also practice spinal self-care. First, maintain proper posture: avoid sitting on low stools or overly soft sofas; ensure seating is moderately firm and at an appropriate height. Replace high heels with soft, comfortable flats. Second, prioritize rest, minimize excessive bending, and incorporate gentle lumbar stretches.Office workers especially should stand up after every hour of work, place hands on hips and rotate side to side, or stretch. Even a minute of movement can relax the lumbar spine.
Postpartum mothers must also mind their posture. Avoid prolonged fixed positions while breastfeeding to prevent lumbar injury or overexertion. Regular self-care activities like stretching, local heat application, and massage can benefit the lumbar spine.While many factors contribute to "postpartum wind," lumbar misalignment is often overlooked. Without targeted treatment, conditions can worsen. Shen Tong advises new mothers experiencing lower back discomfort to seek prompt examination by a specialist. Proper adjustment through osteopathic techniques can lead to full recovery.