Woman's Back Pain - Symptoms and Options To Treat In 2021

How To Manage Woman's Back Pain - Symptoms and Options To Treat In 2021

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the possible causes of lower back pain in women, and when it's important to follow up with your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Premenstrual dysmorphic disorder (PMDD)

PMDD is a more severe form of PMS, where symptoms significantly interfere with daily life. Some people with PMDD may even have trouble functioning when they have symptoms. Fewer women have PMDD than PMS.

The emotional, behavioral, and physical symptoms of PMDD are similar to those of PMS. However, all types of symptoms may be worse. Symptoms typically start the week before your period and end a few days after you get your period.

You may be at increased risk for PMDD if you have a family history of depression and other mood disorders, or have a family history of PMDD.

Pregnancy

Back pain is common during pregnancy . It happens as your center of gravity shifts, you gain weight, and your hormones relax your ligaments in preparation for birth.

For most women, back pain happens between the fifth and seventh months of pregnancy, but it can start much earlier . You're more likely to have back pain during pregnancy if you already have lower back issues.

The most common place to have pain is right below your waist and across your tailbone. You may also have pain in the center of your back, around your waistline. This pain may radiate into your legs.

Back Pain in Pregnancy

The good news is, your baby is growing. That's exactly what should be happening -- but it can still be tough on your back.

You've got lots of company -- most pregnant women experience back pain, usually starting in the second half of pregnancy.

You should know that there are things you can do to minimize your back pain. Here's what helps.

Treatments for Back Pain in Pregnancy

More good news: Unless you had chronic backaches before you got pregnant, your pain will likely ease gradually before you give birth.

Meanwhile, there are many things you can do to treat low back pain or make it rarer and milder:

Regular exercise strengthens muscles and boosts flexibility. That can ease the stress on your spine. Safe exercises for most pregnant women include walking, swimming , and stationary cycling. Your doctor or physical therapist can recommend exercises to strengthen your back and abdomen.

Heat and Cold . Applying heat and cold to your back may help. If your health care provider agrees, start by putting cold compresses (such as a bag of ice or frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel) on the painful area for up to 20 minutes several times a day. After two or three days, switch to heat -- put a heating pad or hot water bottle on the painful area. Be careful not to apply heat to your abdomen during pregnancy.

Slouching strains your spine. So using proper posture when working, sitting, or sleeping is a good move. For example, sleeping on your side with a pillow between the knees will take stress off your back. When sitting at a desk, place a rolled-up towel behind your back for support; rest your feet on a stack of books or stool and sit up straight, with your shoulders back. Wearing a support belt may also help.

If back pain is related to stress, talking to a trusted friend or counselor may be helpful.

Acupuncture is a form of Chinese medicine in which thin needles are inserted into your skin at certain locations. Studies have shown that acupuncture can be effective in relieving low back pain during pregnancy. Check with your health care provider if you're interested in trying it.

When performed correctly, chiropractic manipulation of the spine can be safe during pregnancy, but consult with your doctor before seeking chiropractic care.

When to Seek Treatment From a Chiropractor

Back pain, by itself, usually is not a reason to call your doctor. But you should call your doctor right away if you experience any of the following:

Severe pain

Increasingly severe pain or pain that begins abruptly

Rhythmic cramping pains

Difficulty urinating or “pins and needles” in your extremities In rare cases, severe back pain may be related to problems such as pregnancy-associated osteoporosis , vertebral osteoarthritis , or septic arthritis . Rhythmic pains may be a sign of preterm labor . So if you are experiencing any of these problems, it's important to be checked by your doctor.

Other low back pain causes

There are also causes of lower back pain that can affect anyone of any sex. Some of the most common causes include the conditions outlined below:

Muscle strain

A muscle or ligament strain is one of the most common causes of lower back pain. It can be caused by:

repeated heavy lifting bending or twisting awkwardly

a sudden awkward movement overstretching the muscle or ligament

If you continue doing the type of movement that strained the muscle, it can eventually cause back spasms

Regardless of the pain it is key that it gets treated. A great start is by seeing a back pain specialist. You can find many in the phone book and on the web. But I recommed you reachout to:

Matthews Chiropractic & Sports Rehabilitation, LLC

2001 Lincoln Dr W suite b

Marlton, NJ 08053

18565966474