Can Prenatal Physiotherapy Help in Managing Pregnancy-Related Back Pain?

In Granville Physiotherapy, we offer manual therapy techniques for pregnancy-related back pain that help improve circulation, promote relaxation, and release tightness in the muscles, contributing to pain relief and improved function. Here are some common manual therapy techniques used in prenatal physiotherapy:

Soft Tissue Massage: 

Soft tissue massage involves applying gentle pressure and kneading motions to muscles, tendons, and ligaments to minimize muscle tension, improve circulation, and promote relaxation. Massage can target areas of discomfort such as the lower back, hips, shoulders, and neck, providing relief from pregnancy-related aches and pains.

Joint Mobilization: 

Joint mobilization techniques are used to improve joint mobility and reduce stiffness in the spine, pelvis, and extremities. Our registered physiotherapist, who specializes in prenatal physiotherapy in Edmonton, uses gentle, controlled movements to stretch and mobilize the joints, helping to restore the normal range of motion and alleviate joint pain or stiffness associated with pregnancy.

Myofascial Release: 

Myofascial release techniques target the fascia, a slender sheet of connective tissue that surrounds muscles, bones, and organs. During pregnancy, changes in posture and weight distribution can lead to restrictions in the fascia, contributing to discomfort and musculoskeletal dysfunction. Myofascial release techniques involve applying sustained pressure to release tension and restore mobility in the fascial tissues.

Trigger Point Therapy: 

These are localized areas of muscle tightness and tenderness that can refer to pain in other parts of the body. This involves applying pressure to these specific points to release tension, reduce pain, and enhance muscle function. This technique can be particularly effective for relieving tension in muscles that become strained or overworked during pregnancy, such as the lower back, glutes, and shoulders.

Lymphatic Drainage: 

This technique is used to stimulate the lymphatic system, which helps remove waste products and toxins from the body and reduce swelling or edema. Gentle, rhythmic movements are applied to the skin to enhance lymphatic flow and reduce fluid retention, which are common concerns during pregnancy.