What Causes Back Pain During Pregnancy?

Back pain during pregancy is common

Approximately half of all pregnancies are complicated by back pain (1). About 10% of the time, the pain becomes so severe that it can interfere with the ability to work or carry out normal activities during pregnancy.

Factors increasing the risk of back pain during pregnancy

Key factors that are associated with increased risk of developing low back pain during pregnancy include:

• Physically strenuous work
• Lifting, bending and child care
• A history of low back pain prior to pregnancy

Common causes of back pain during pregnancy

The most common cause of back pain in pregnancy is malfunction in the sacroiliac joint. While it can be quite painful, this condition is treatable and (especially with treatment) tends to get better after delivery of the baby.

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction during pregnancy

The sacroiliac joint forms the functional unit of the pelvis that allows normal alternating movement during walking. As the pregnancy advances, hormonal changes prepare the pelvis for delivery of the child by loosening the strong ligaments that control the function of these joints (2).

The increased elasticity of these ligaments during pregnancy is necessary for the birth canal to expand as the baby passes through it. However, the associated increase in motion and instability around the sacroiliac joint can also be a source of pain.

• Article written By:
• John J. Triano, DC, PhD

April 22, 2000

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