Osteopathy During Pregnancy

Is it safe?

Osteopaths treat pregnancy related body pain from the second trimester and can be a welcome relief from discomfort relating to adapting to a growing foetus, or even a painful problem that has been aggravated.

Techniques used during this time are more gentle and involve less strong manipulative techniques, depending on the issue treatment is tailored to the area and comfortable position of the patient. Usually side-lying or sitting slightly up to ensure optimum comfort of the expectant mother.

Midwives, Doulas, lactation consultants and GP practices know of this approach well and we often see patients based on recommendations from local health professionals.

What do you help with?

The most common complaints during pregnancy are pelvic girdle and lower back pains, we often are recommended by midwives and Doula’s as the only other options suggested are usually support belts and paracetamol. However, upper back issues are also a common presentation which we find massage, stretching and gentle manipulation works well for.

How many sessions?

Often we find that with maternity patients they respond well to Osteopathy treatment as the ligaments and soft tissues offer more laxity during this time, making adjustments easier to make. Patients often find benefit in spacing out appointments, so that they can have sessions right up to their due date and feel ready to take on the birth process knowing their body is well prepared.