SJ responds to a reader’s question in the “Ask Our Experts” section of OHbaby! magazine.

The Right Treatment

Q: I have benefitted from osteopathy in the past for my lower back issues, and I have found great relief from being manipulated, but I have recently found out that I am pregnant and I heard that some osteopathy treatments are not considered safe during the first trimester of pregnancy. Is this the case? And, if so, what alternative treatments would you recommend?

A: OHbaby! osteopath Sarah-Jane Attias replies: How exciting, a newborn on the way! At my clinic we recommend getting your support team in place for you and baby’s 40-week journey as early as possible. It is so important to give yourself time to “be” pregnant. My advice regarding osteopathy would be to seek treatment from an osteopath who has taken their study further into the field of pregnancy and newborns. You are wise to check the level of experience, as this does vary. For instance, I studied for five years as an osteopath and then, over the past 20 years, have spent a further 300 hours in continued professional education for pre- and postnatal care.

As you have experienced before, the results from receiving gentle and effective osteopathic treatment are always encouraging and often instantaneous. Receiving such treatment is still possible in the first trimester. At this time, your osteopath could also offer appropriate advice on how to work with your ever-growing baby and all the related demands on mum’s body.

Most practitioners who work in this field have studied cranial osteopathy. Their methods of treatment are gentle and observant of the mother and baby. The word ‘cranial’ can be misleading, as it suggests that the therapist only works with the head, but in fact we work with your whole body: central nervous system, hormones, visceral system, joints, muscles, relating tissues, breathing mechanics … the list goes on.

To address your concerns, rigorous manipulation is not advised during the first trimester due to the possibility of spontaneous miscarriage. The likelihood of this is extremely rare, but as with any advice given – from no lifting to no horse riding – it is always erring on the side of caution, as the alternative is too tragic.

While direct manipulation of the spine or pelvis is not recommended, there are other parts of the body that can safely be approached, providing ease and relief.
The other forms of treatments that I recommend very much depend on the individual needs of the mother: from nutrition to yoga, Pilates, and acupuncture.

At Living Osteopathy we have an established and trusted group of pre- and postnatal specialists whom we refer to.

Congratulations on your good news, I wish you a healthy and happy pregnancy.