PREGNANCY MASSAGE

A woman’s body undergoes major physiological, structural, and emotional changes during pregnancy. Muscle and joint pain are very common during all stages of pregnancy as well as increased stress, anxiety, depression, and fatigue.

Pregnancy-related low back pain and pelvic pain has an impact on daily life for many women. A recent study has shown this type of pain is prevalent in 72% of pregnant women.  Common changes can include:

FIRST TRIMESTER (1 – 3 MONTHS

• Nausea
• Weight Change
• Frequent Urination
• Constipation or Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Breast Tenderness
• Mood Fluctuations

SECOND TRIMESTER (4 – 6 MONTHS)

• Constipation
• Weight Gain
• Heartburn
• Headaches
• Postural Problems:  (e.g., backache, abdominal muscle spasms, low back discomfort, sacroiliac dysfunction, and sore feet)

THIRD TRIMESTER (7 – 9 MONTHS)

• Fatigue
• Possible Gestational Diabetes
• Increased Postural Problems and Weight Gain
• Breast Engorgement
• Edema Swelling, especially hands and feet
• Prolonged Mood Phases (e.g. boredom, fear, anxiety, etc.)
• Frequent Urination

MASSAGE THERAPY TREATMENT DURING PREGNANCY

Massage Therapy can help in the following ways:

• Contributes to an Overall Sense of Well-Being
• Relaxes Both Body and Mind
• Decreases Edema
• Increases Circulation
• Increases Energy Level
• Reduces Muscle Tension and Backache
• Reduces Headaches
• Stimulates Endorphin Release (a natural pain killer produced by the pituitary gland)

Massage Therapy will provide general relaxation and an emphasis on improved circulation and drainage plus attention to the presenting signs and symptoms.  The Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) may use techniques to help the expectant mother relax into controlled pain.  These may include diaphragmatic breathing and Trigger Point Therapy as a warm-up to labour.  Various forms of hydrotherapy, remedial exercise, self-massage, and postural guidance may be indicated for home care between treatments.  Massage Therapy is an excellent drug-free method for treating the muscle tension, edema, and discomfort often associated with pregnancy.

BACKACHE is one of the most common discomforts of pregnancy.  Here are some preventive measures to assist you:

•  try to avoid prolonged standing.  When standing try to rest one foot on a box or footstool.
•  try to avoid sitting in one position for more than half an hour.  Sit back in a chair which provides good lumbar (low back) support.  Rest one or both feet on a box or footstool.
•  lie on your side with your knees bent and a pillow between them.  Sleeping on your back with a pillow under the knees may be comfortable until about the fourth month of pregnancy.
• avoid lifting heavy objects.  When lifting something from below waist level, keep your back straight and bend your knees to reach the object, then tighten your abdomen and straighten up with your legs.  Strengthen your abdominal muscles to help reduce the arch in your spine.
•  follow the prescribed exercise program designed by your RMT.  Avoid lifting both legs at the same time or arching your back.