Becoming a mother is one of the most exciting days in a woman's life. However, when welcoming your new bundle of joy into the world, you could also be welcoming a slew of new health issues.
As your body adjusts to motherhood, you might be experiencing an array of discomfort. For new mothers and seasoned moms alike, this is not out of the ordinary. Read on for common health conditions affecting millions of moms, and what you can do to circumvent them.
Mothers Beware These Conditions
Mother's Wrist
Known by many monikers, including mother's wrist and mommy's thumb, De Quervain's tenosynovitis is an injury most commonly experienced by new mothers frequently having to lift and support an infant. Caused by a habitual over-extension or flexing of the wrist, the two tendons connecting muscle to bone in the wrist become inflamed. This inflammation limits the movement of the tendons, causing soreness in the wrist which can spread to pain in the forearm.
When left untreated, mother's wrist can require a cast to aid in the healing of the tendons. As most moms know, there are not enough hours in the day to complete daily tasks as it is, much less with the addition of a bulky cast. Instead, begin making adjustments to your posture at the onset of pain.
When lifting your child, scoop up from their bottom with your palms facing up, as opposed to raising from under their arms. Steer clear of bending the wrist further: when cradling baby's head, keep your forearm, wrist, and hand in a straight line. Utilize both arms as much as possible, and use a pillow when breastfeeding so your arms don't have to bear your baby's weight.
Muscle Strain
You've already carried your baby in your belly for nine months, but you still have quite a few years of "carrying" to go. Between breastfeeding, trips to the changing table, and piggyback rides through the park, chances are your child spends at least 25% of the day in your arms. That's all well and good; until the muscles in your neck and back begin feeling pulled or strained.
For one, assure that when you're toting your tot, always lift with your knees. A majority of muscle tears occur when the knee doesn't bend while lifting heavy objects, even a toddler. Likewise, try stretching the muscles regularly. One exercise you can complete without breaking a sweat is to clasp your hands behind your back and gradually lift your arms from the waist up to the head. You'll feel an immediate release in your muscles as they stretch upwards.
Pelvic Pain
Following birth, mothers can experience pelvis discomfort stemming from the misalignment of the back, pelvis, and tailbone. For new mothers, the pelvic floor is still adjusting postpartum. For mothers carrying around older children, supporting your little one on one hip with incorrect posture could be throwing your spine out of whack.
To avoid potential pelvic pain, opt to carry your child with both arms, as opposed to just one. Mind your posture, and don't tilt your pelvis on a one-sided hold. Switch sides regularly, and keep the tailbone and pelvis aligned. If pain persists, visit a chiropractor for an adjustment. Pain could be a result of the misalignment of the pelvis affecting the nervous system.
Headaches
Headaches aren't foreign territory to any mom. They can be triggered by just about anything: a lack of sleep, stress, and more. Though these causes might seem to be regular occurrences for most mothers, headaches can be debilitating and distract from time spent with family.
An efficient way of combating chronic headaches is to visit a chiropractor for a spinal alignment. Spinal manipulation can not only alleviate stress on the body but also relieve tension in the neck and back caused by frequent headaches. Additionally, your chiropractor can recommend changes you can make to your diet and exercise routine to mitigate painful side effects.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Similar to headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, also known as IBS, can be caused by stress, poor eating habits, and dehydration. IBS is another condition that can limit the time spent enjoying your little ones, or even relaxing at night once they've gone to bed.
A chiropractor might be your best option to alleviate the problems involved with this digestive disorder. The nervous system is linked to the digestive system, so when one is thrown out of whack, your entire body will suffer. A chiropractor can address the nerves located in the thoracic or lumbar regions of the spine, which can cause digestive issues when interrupted by spinal issues.
Visiting a Chiropractor to Alleviate Mom Pain
From debilitating ailments to general fatigue, being a mom is hard work. ChiroCare of Florida understands that as a mother, your body is working overtime to support yourself and your family. Visit one of our eleven locations around the South Florida area to get your body back in fighting shape. Call 877-377-4448 today.
