Health Tip: Easing Back Pain During Pregnancy

Suggestions to help reduce the strain

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(HealthDay News) -- While you're pregnant, all that extra weight can lead to significant back pain.

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The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists offers these suggestions to help prevent or relieve that pain in your back:

• Avoid completely flat or high-heeled shoes; something in between with a low heel and supportive arch is best.
• Don't lift heavy objects by yourself.
• If you have to be on your feet for a long time, prop up one foot on a stepstool or stair.
• Sleep on a firm mattress or place a board between the mattress and box spring.
• Bend at your knees rather than at the waist.
• Place a small pillow behind your lower back when sitting in a chair, or use a chair with a lot of back support.
• Sleep on your side, and place pillows between your legs.
• Gently massage your lower back, or apply a heating pad or ice pack.

-- Diana Kohnle