Breastfeeding can be a beautiful and rewarding experience, providing mums with priceless bonding time and their babies with essential nourishment. But for many mothers, it can often lead to back and neck pain.
Here are some of the causes of discomfort mums may experience:
Poor Posture
One of the main culprits of back and neck pain in breastfeeding mothers is poor posture. Hunching over to feed the baby puts strain on the spine, shoulders, and neck muscles. This can lead to chronic pain if not addressed.
Lack of Support
Inadequate support while breastfeeding can worsen pain issues. This includes:
- Not using supportive pillows
- Sitting in chairs without proper back support
- Breastfeeding in bed without proper positioning
Repetitive Strain
The repetitive nature of breastfeeding, especially in the early months when babies feed frequently, can cause strain on the same muscle groups. This repetitive stress can lead to inflammation and pain over time.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations during and after pregnancy can affect ligaments and joints, making them more susceptible to strain. While this increased flexibility is beneficial for childbirth, it can contribute to instability in the spine and pelvis during breastfeeding.
Physical Stress
Caring for a newborn is physically demanding as it involves lots of lifting, carrying, and bending, which can compound the stress on a mother’s body. These activities, combined with the postural challenges of breastfeeding, can intensify back and neck pain.
It’s important for mums to address these primary causes of back and neck pain. Proper positioning, adequate support, and awareness of body mechanics can significantly reduce discomfort. Regular stretching and gentle exercises can also help ease pain and improve overall posture.
Get Natural Relief Today
Book an appointment with one of our chiropractors today to relieve your discomfort and learn proper breastfeeding techniques and posture.