Mid Back (Thoracic Spine) Pain During Pregnancy
Is this common during pregnancy?
The answer here is yes! As your baby grows, your body naturally adapts as it should. Changes in posture, weight distribution, and position of your rib cage (which is attached exactly to the thoracic spine) can and will place extra stress on the spinal joints and the nerves in the mid back (thoracic spine).
Postural changes can create extra strain
During pregnancy, your centre of gravity shifts forwards leading to rounded shoulders, increased thoracic curve, increasing upper back tension and fatigue of the muscles supporting the spine allowing for further slouching. Notice these changes progressing from left to right in the above image.
Rib alignment and change in breathing patterns can contribute
As the baby grows and the uterus expands, breathing patterns will change due to proximity of the diaphragm. Your diaphragm is your main breathing muscle which is attached to the lower ribcage. These adaptations can create tightness and discomfort throughout the mid-back where the ribs attach to the thoracic spine as well as the shoulder blade area.
Movement and gentle chiropractic care can help
Maintaining mobility, practicing pregnancy-friendly exercises and receiving care from a qualified chiropractor with experience in pregnancy care will help support posture, comfort and movement throughout your pregnancy experience. These will depend on the posture distortions currently inherent to your spine. Exercises and the gentle chiropractic adjustments thus will be specific for each individual pregnancy. We have excellent adjusting tables and pregnancy pillows for comfort and support throughout each trimester of care.
Do not ignore persistent discomfort
Mid back pain can be quite common during pregnancy but ongoing severe discomfort requires attention. Never discount that what the mother feels; those stresses can also affect the fetus. A personalized chiropractic approach can help support the changes your body will go through during each trimester. If we cannot help you, we will recommend and refer you to the appropriate health care provider whom we think can.
Conclusion
What I have noticed treating many pregnant mothers over the years is that many report a more comfortable pregnancy; less back pain, less heartburn and indigestion (which stems from mid-back stress), easier delivery and quicker post-natal recovery.
To learn more about the benefits of gentle chiropractic care during each stage of pregnancy, you can reach out to us here or call us at 905 335 LIFE (5433).
Dr Brad has also studied pregnancy fitness as part of his certification as a Personal Training Specialist with canfitpro.