How to Relieve Sacroiliac Joint Pain During Pregnancy
You produce hormones called relaxins while pregnant. These hormones cause the ligaments in the pelvis area to soften.
You produce hormones called relaxins while pregnant. These hormones cause the ligaments in the pelvis area to soften. Pain develops in the sacroiliac joint, the joint at the back of the pelvis that connects your spine to your pelvis, when you stress or put pressure on the softened ligaments surrounding the sacroiliac joint with improper posture, heavy lifting, standing up from a sitting position or while lying flat on your back. Discuss your pain with your doctor, who can give you a professional diagnosis and specific advice about prevention and treatment options.
Step 1
Perform exercises for your abdominals, back and pelvis. For example, do pelvic floor exercises by squeezing the muscles that you use to empty your bladder for approximately five seconds, five times consecutively.
Step 2
Soak in a warm bath to help treat pain and discomfort of the sacroiliac joint. Make sure that the water temperature is below 100 F so that it does not harm your unborn baby.
Step 3
Wear a pelvic support belt to help reduce back pain and reduce pressure on your back and spine.
Step 4
Take a pain reliever like acetaminophen. Do not take ibuprofen, which is dangerous and can lead to fetal birth defects. Get your doctor's approval before taking medication of any kind while pregnant.
Tip
Consult a prenatal chiropractor or physiotherapist, who can adjust your spine or manipulate the stiff spots in your pelvis, back and hips to help correct any weight imbalances and ease joint pain, "American Baby" magazine notes.
warning
Do not push or lift heavy objects while you are pregnant, particularly if you are susceptible to sacroiliac joint pain. Stop any activity if you experience back or joint pain.