Back pain and orthopedic doctors make a perfect match. With their numerous years of rigorous training, orthopedic doctors understand the complex structure of the spine and surrounding tissue. They offer a wide variety of treatment options to help manage pain and correct conditions and injuries in the back.
When you’re pregnant, though, you may feel like back pain is to be expected. Therefore, you might feel as though you should just tough it out. However, you don’t have to endure the pain when you have options like an orthopedic doctor who can help. Let’s discuss some factors you should consider when deciding if an orthopedic doctor is necessary for your pregnancy-related back pain.
When Back Pain Interferes with Your Comfort and Ability to Perform Daily Tasks
While you don’t need to rush to an orthopedic doctor if you have minor back pain, you should consider scheduling a visit with one if the back pain is interfering with your ability to relax or sleep at night. Additionally, an orthopedic doctor may help when you’re having trouble executing everyday tasks because your back pain is getting in the way. They can offer a variety of treatments to help with symptoms as well as correct the underlying cause.
If You’re Not Finding Relief from Conservative Measures
Hot and cold therapies are useful for managing back pain in both pregnant and non-pregnant patients. Heat promotes circulation and soothes sore muscles. On the other hand, cold constricts blood vessels and reduces swelling. You may also find relief from your back pain by staying active and taking rest, as needed. You should also watch how much weight you lift and make sure to always lift with your legs.
When these measures aren’t enough to prevent or relieve back pain, you may want to visit an orthopedic doctor. An orthopedic doctor can recommend safe ways to reduce your back pain, such as working on your posture. An orthopedic doctor can also prescribe treatments that can ease your pain, such as minimally invasive treatments and surgery. For pregnant patients, treatments will focus on minimizing symptoms until after the baby is born.
When You Need a Safe Alternative for Back Pain Relief
Although orthopedic doctors aren’t specialists in obstetrics, they are specialists in back pain. They understand that a pregnant woman needs relief that’s safe for both her and the baby. That’s why they will only recommend safe treatments to decrease your back pain.
For instance, an orthopedic doctor can guide you through stretches that enhance blood flow in the back. There are also exercises to keep your muscles and other soft tissues moving, which can ease tightness and pain.
Consider if You Have Other Musculoskeletal Issues
Pregnancy doesn’t just cause back pain. You’re also at a greater risk for other musculoskeletal problems, such as plantar fasciitis and carpal tunnel. You can find relief from your back pain with the help of an orthopedic doctor, as well as other pregnancy-related musculoskeletal problems.
Contacting Our Avon and Westlake Doctors for Treatment of Your Back Pain
Although pregnancy-induced back pain treatment isn’t always necessary, you could benefit from it. At Orthopaedic Associates, we understand how uncomfortable and disrupting back pain can be. If you want to find solutions to your back pain, consider seeing one of our experts.
Contact us for an appointment today. You may call us at (440) 892-1440 or request an appointment via our online form.