Breastfeeding is healthy, free, and convenient – particularly during those middle-of-the-night feedings. This feeding practice is a beautiful and natural way to nourish and bond with your baby, providing vital nutrients and fostering a deep skin-to-skin connection.
If you’re like many new mums, however, you may experience back and neck pain while breastfeeding. This discomfort is often due to the combined effects of pregnancy, childbirth, and infant care.
As many breastfeeding mums want to avoid taking medication, chiropractic care offers a completely natural way to ease this discomfort, allowing them to focus on bonding with their newborns.
Understanding the Source of Pain
Pregnancy and childbirth significantly impact a woman’s body. “The changes your body goes through during pregnancy are enormous,” said Dr Chelsea. Weight gain, hormonal shifts, and the physical stress of delivery can lead to lasting discomfort. Here are some of the most common issues breastfeeding mothers experience:
- Neck pain from looking down at the baby
- Shoulder pain from holding the infant
- Mid-back pain from poor posture while feeding
- Lower back pain from prolonged sitting and frequent lifting
How Chiropractic Care May Help
Chiropractic care aims to improve spinal function and overall body mechanics. For breastfeeding mums, this can mean the following:
- Improved posture: Chiropractors may help correct postural issues that contribute to pain while nursing.
- Enhanced flexibility: Adjustments can increase range of motion, making it easier to position the baby comfortably.
- Reduced muscle tension: Chiropractic techniques may alleviate muscle strain in the neck, shoulders, and back.
Prevention and Long-term Benefits
Regular chiropractic care during and after pregnancy may help prevent many common breastfeeding-related discomforts. By maintaining proper spinal alignment and muscle balance, mums may find it easier to adapt to the physical demands of caring for a newborn.
It’s important to remember that while discomfort may be common during breastfeeding, it isn’t inevitable. “Normal is good function and feeling good. Pain is your body telling you something is wrong and needs to change”.
Book an Appointment
If you’re experiencing discomfort during breastfeeding, schedule an appointment today. We want to help you and your baby enjoy this special and beautiful time comfortably!
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