Massage has traditionally been used in many cultures to help with the physical and mental effects of pregnancy. Pregnancy massage is customised to your needs and just like regular treatment, it aims to relax tense muscles, ease sore spots, improve circulation and increase mobility. It is a safe, drug-free way to provide relief from a variety of common symptoms and, therefore, it can contribute to your overall feelings of well-being
Using a range of techniques from my Soft Tissue Therapy toolbox, a Pregnancy massage will help you if you are suffering from any of the following:
Low Back Pain – Caused by Tense muscles and change in posture – See more details below
Puffy Ankles – Reduction in circulation of blood and Lymph
Insomnia – Caused by Stress and difficulties in getting comfortable
Nausea – Common effect of hormonal changes
Anxiety – Stress, worries about body image
The causes of these symptoms can all be discussed before treatment and helped with gentle hands – on therapy. Massage will be in the side-lying position to fully support you and your baby. The whole body can be treated in this way so that you get maximum benefit from your appointment.
This style of treatment provides a time for you to relax, focus on yourself and provide your baby with a calm environment in which to grow.
If you have been identified with a high-risk pregnancy, please discuss with your Midwife or Consultant before considering Massage to help with your symptoms. It may not be your best course of action and they will be able to advise you.
Low Back Pain in Pregnancy –
Many women experience low back pain during their pregnancy. There are a number of common causes for this and some simple treatments to try. Please get in touch if you want to discuss how massage may be able to help you.
Common causes of low back pain in pregnancy include:
Changes in posture and curve of the spine,
Laxity of joints and widening of the pelvis due to the hormones Relaxin and Oestrogen,
Change in centre of gravity,
Daily activities that load the spine in an uneven motion such as walking, rolling over in bed or twisting.
Once your G.P. or Midwife has ruled out any serious conditions that may be contributing to your pain, you may be offered Physiotherapy, advice on supported sleeping (pillow placement to support limbs), and exercises to strengthen your hips, pelvis and lower back. Taking regular rest and using a heat pad to relieve pain can also help. Medication should only be used after consultation with your G.P. to ensure that you stick to “pregnancy safe” drugs.
If you would like to discuss how my therapies can help, then please get in touch.