Pregnancy Clinic
Clinic for expectant mothers
Pelvic mechanics can be addressed directly or through work with the deep fascia and the cranio-sacral rhythm. By addressing structural imbalances, osteopathy encourages an environment for optimal foetal positioning and promotes the necessary sacral motions for unobstructed transit of the baby through the birth canal.
Pregnancy pain is common; Most cases resolve within 3 months of delivery, however treatment can make for a more comfortable experience. Complaints are most often due to the increasing weight of the baby, shifts in the centre of gravity as the uterus grows and ligament laxity associated with hormonal changes. Reduced muscular support introduces novel strain patterns and maladaptive compensations in biomechanics and posture.
Hyperlordosis, or deepening of the curve in the low back is seen commonly, along with external rotation of the hips, or 'walking like a duck'. Such things as sacroiliac and symphysis pubis dysfunctions (SPD) can occur and pressure on the sciatic nerve can cause symptoms radiating down the leg. Changes in posture and increased weight of the breasts can cause tension around the neck and shoulders, sometimes leading to headaches.
In later pregnancy, growth of the baby under the ribs can affect breathing mechanics; pressure on the rib cage and diaphragm causes not only pain but also difficulty with deep breathing, indigestion and reflux. Pressure on organs such as the gallbladder and bladder can cause visceral pain and urgency and digestive transit can be slowed, leading to constipation.
Acupuncture In Pregnancy
Acupuncture can be effective for a range of painful pregnancy complaints and is widely known to benefit morning sickness. Some points can induce uterine contractions and are forbidden in treatment. While not directly able to induce labour, there is reasonable evidence to suggest that acupuncture after 36 weeks promotes cervical ripening.
Osteopathy For Pregnancy Related Pain And Birth Preparation
Jane trained with the Birthlight Foundation to teach yoga-based exercise for pregnancy and birth preparation. She may prescribe this as part of your treatment plan for self-management of pain and birth preparation.
- Low back pain
- Pelvic girdle pain
- Symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD)
- Sciatica
- Neck & shoulder pain
- Headaches
- Rib pain
- Restricted breathing
- Reflux & indigestion
- Bladder urgency
- Constipation
Postnatal Clinic
Our postnatal clinic is for women who have given birth in the last 18 months.
The post-natal period is one of recovery and exploration as mum and baby bond and get to know each other. This is a process with continual adaptation required to meet baby’s evolving needs and own little ways as they grow and develop. Most women visit us with back pain due to abdominal and pelvic floor weaknesses as well as postural complaints from caring for the newborn and other young children.
Risk factors for developing postnatal pain include pain in pregnancy, Caesarean section, grade three and four perineal tears, multiple pregnancies and carrying twins (or more!).
Care of the newborn involves plenty of lifting, some of which can be awkward. The deep abdominal muscles and muscles of the pelvic floor together support the lumbar spine. They must recover and regain strength to allow mum to perform her duties without causing injury or discomfort. Those who have had a Caesarean or significant perineal tear will be advised to avoid lifting for 6 weeks; their lifting doesn’t start until baby has already gained around a kilo in weight.
Ligamentous laxity persists into the postnatal period, especially in breast-feeding mothers. Increased size and weight of the breasts, and sustained postures such as sitting to feed, cause rounding of the upper back and shoulders whether baby is at the breast or at the bottle. Pain and stiffness can spread to the neck, causing headaches in some.
Postnatal Recovery
Osteopathy offers a gentle and effective way to help the body recover from the physical demands of pregnancy and childbirth, allowing new parents to feel more comfortable and better able to care for and enjoy their little one.
Jane trained with the Birthlight Foundation to teach yoga-based exercise in postnatal recovery. She may prescribe these as part of your treatment plan for self-management.
- Postnatal pain
- Caesarean recovery
- Pelvic floor rehabilitation
- Reconnection with the deep abdominals
- Stabilises the hips, pelvis & spine
- Addresses muscle imbalances & posture