Low back pain from an epidural
While it is possible for some women to experience low back pain after receiving an epidural during labor, it is important to note that epidurals themselves do not directly cause long-term or chronic low back pain. However, there are a few factors associated with epidurals that can contribute to temporary discomfort in the lower back.
Positioning during administration: The positioning required for an epidural, such as bending forward and curving the lower back, can put strain on the back muscles and potentially lead to temporary soreness or discomfort.
Muscle tension and weakness: During labor, the body may naturally tense the muscles in response to pain or stress. This prolonged tension can lead to muscle fatigue and discomfort in the lower back after the epidural wears off.
Compensation due to numbness: Epidurals can cause temporary numbness in the lower body, including the pelvic region and legs. As a result, some women may unconsciously alter their posture or movement patterns to compensate for the numbness, which can put additional strain on the lower back.
It is worth noting that these effects are typically short-term and should resolve within a few days to weeks after giving birth. Engaging in gentle exercises, maintaining good posture, and gradually resuming physical activity can help alleviate any discomfort or muscle imbalances associated with the epidural.
If you're experiencing low back pain after receiving an epidural during labor, here are three tips that may help alleviate your discomfort:
Maintain Good Posture: Proper posture is crucial for relieving and preventing low back pain. Pay attention to your posture throughout the day, whether you're sitting, standing, or lifting. Sit with your back supported and aligned, avoiding slouching or excessive arching of the lower back. When standing, distribute your weight evenly on both feet and engage your core muscles to support your spine. When lifting objects, remember to bend at the knees and use your leg muscles rather than straining your back.
Gentle Stretching and Exercise: Engaging in gentle stretching and exercise can help relieve low back pain and promote healing. Consult with your healthcare provider or a pelvic floor physical therapist to ensure that you choose safe and appropriate exercises for your specific condition. Gentle exercises that target core strength, such as pelvic tilts and gentle abdominal contractions, can help stabilize the low back. Additionally, incorporating gentle stretching for the lower back, hips, and hamstrings can help alleviate tightness and improve flexibility.
Heat or Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold therapy to the affected area can provide temporary relief from low back pain. Experiment with both heat and cold to see which one works best for you. For heat therapy, you can use a heating pad, warm towel, or take a warm bath or shower. Applying heat can help relax tense muscles and improve blood flow to the area. For cold therapy, you can use an ice pack wrapped in a thin cloth or a bag of frozen vegetables. Cold therapy can help reduce inflammation and numb the area, providing temporary pain relief.
Remember, it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider or a pelvic floor physical therapist to determine the underlying cause of your low back pain and receive appropriate guidance for your specific situation. They can provide personalized recommendations and additional treatment options to help alleviate your discomfort and support your recovery
.If you are located in St. George or Southern Utah and want more help, schedule with us today!
*Pelvic floor physical therapy is covered by all major insurances. Many people have met their deductible or out-of-pocket max after having a baby. This means that most people will have a small co-pay or not end up paying. Call our office today and we can look up your insurance benefits 435-767-1252
