Back pain in pregnancy
- drnanuradha
- Mar 20, 2025
- 2 min read
Back pain is a common problem which occur during pregnancy, which occurs due to increased lordosis due to weight of the baby, increase in weight during pregnancy, hormonal influences and change in posture.
Symptoms:
Dull ache or sharp, burning pain in the lower back
One-sided pain in the right or left area of the lower and/or mid-back
Pain that radiates into the back of the thigh and leg, and sometimes into the foot (similar to sciatica)
Pain that is worse at night .
Tips to Relife pains:
Gentle massage
Hot compress which relaxes muscles and give symptomatic relief
Gentle exercise like stretching, swimming and yoga, under guidance.
Proper posture , maintain a good posture while standing and sitting, with back straight and avoid slouching.
Good amount of rest and avoid exertions .
Support, use pregnancy pillow and belts for extra support and comfort in pregnancy.
Proper sleeping position on the sides and with pillow in between knees.
Paracetamol if pain is unbearable
Consult your doctor: If the pain is severe or persistent, or if you experience other symptoms like fever or vaginal bleeding, seek medical advice.
Safe Exercises for Back Pain During Pregnancy
1. Pelvic Tilts
* Stand with your back against a wall or get on hands and knees.
* Tighten your abdominal muscles and gently flatten your lower back.
* Hold for 5 seconds and relax.
* Repeat 10–15 times.
2. Cat-Camel Stretch
* Position yourself on hands and knees.
* Slowly arch your back upward (like a cat).
* Then gently relax your back into a neutral position.
* Repeat 10 times.
3. Child’s Pose (Modified)
* Kneel with knees apart to accommodate the abdomen.
* Stretch your arms forward and lower your chest gently.
* Hold for 20–30 seconds.
4. Bird Dog Exercise
* On hands and knees, extend one arm and the opposite leg.
* Keep your back straight.
* Hold for 3–5 seconds.
* Repeat 5–10 times on each side.
5. Pelvic Rocking on a Birth Ball
* Sit on an exercise ball.
* Gently rock your pelvis forward, backward, and in circles.
* Continue for 5–10 minutes.
6. Side-Lying Leg Raises
* Lie on your side with knees slightly bent.
* Lift the upper leg slowly and lower it.
* Repeat 10–15 times per side.
7. Walking
* A 20–30 minute walk daily helps strengthen back and pelvic muscles and improves posture.
Additional Tips
✅ Wear supportive footwear.
✅ Avoid standing for long periods.
✅ Sleep on your side with a pillow between the knees.
✅ Use a pregnancy support belt if recommended.
✅ Apply warm compresses (not hot) to painful areas.
When to Seek Medical Evaluation
Contact your obstetrician if back pain is:
* Severe or worsening
* Associated with fever
* Accompanied by vaginal bleeding or fluid leakage
* Rhythmic/cramp-like (possible preterm labor)
* Associated with leg weakness or numbness
For your antenatal patients, pelvic tilts, cat-camel stretches, birth-ball exercises, and regular walking are usually the most effective and safest first-line exercises for pregnancy-related low back pain.
for any emergency call 8840911046 to consult our expert or go to the nearest hospital where you have registered for delivery.
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