Pregnancy discomfort
Pregnancy brings many changes to a woman’s body, with each stage requiring different adjustments and posing unique challenges. At Halifax RMT, we specialize in providing tailored massage therapies to support expectant mothers through these physical transformations. Our skilled therapists use techniques designed to alleviate common pregnancy-related discomforts and enhance overall well-being during this important time.
Whether it’s alleviating the strain from carrying extra weight, easing muscle tension, or improving circulation, massage therapy can play a key role in helping manage pregnancy-related discomforts. We focus on techniques that are safe and beneficial at all stages of pregnancy, helping women feel more relaxed and comfortable throughout this transformative experience.
Our massage therapies can help with various pregnancy-related concerns, including back pain, swelling, and muscle tightness, all while promoting relaxation and mental well-being. If you’re expecting and looking for relief, contact Halifax RMT to find out how we can support your journey to a healthier, more comfortable pregnancy.
Pregnancy discomfort
Studies show that therapeutic massage offers significant benefits both during pregnancy and in the postpartum period.
Research Highlights
A 1999 study published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics and Gynecology found that patients who received massage therapy reported less anxiety, better sleep quality, relief from back pain, and a more positive mood overall.
Dr. Gail Pezzullo-Burgs, an obstetrician in Boca Raton, Florida, has integrated therapeutic massage into her prenatal care and observed improvements in anxiety levels and a reduction in sciatica pain, often caused by the additional weight of pregnancy.
A 2006 study in the Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences found massage to be effective in alleviating pregnancy-related nausea. Another study in 2009, published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, revealed that a combination of massage therapy and psychotherapy helped significantly reduce symptoms of depression in pregnant women compared to those receiving only psychotherapy.
A study published in *Infant Behavior & Development (2009) showed that women who received massage therapy experienced a reduction in depression both during and after pregnancy. Similarly, a 2010 review in Expert Reviews in Obstetrics and Gynecology* reported that massage therapy helped reduce anxiety, leg and back pain, decreased the need for pain medications, and even shortened the average duration of labor by three hours.
Common Pregnancy Complaints
Pregnancy brings various physical and emotional challenges. Some of the most common complaints include:
– Morning Sickness: Some studies recommend gentle positioning during the massage to alleviate discomfort, while ensuring a suitable container is nearby for nausea.
– Heartburn: Positioning the body at an incline during the massage can help manage reflux. Supporting the abdomen while lying on the side also relieves tension in the gastric sphincter.
– Varicose Veins: Blood pooling is a common issue, and it’s important to avoid massaging directly over these areas to prevent the risk of blood clots. Instead, the focus can be on massaging the feet.
– Swelling (Edema): Mild swelling can be managed with specific techniques, but significant swelling, especially in the hands or face, should be monitored closely as it could signal complications.
At Halifax RMT, we are committed to staying informed on the latest research and using evidence-based practices to ensure the best care for pregnant clients. Our skilled therapists are trained in techniques that provide relief from common pregnancy discomforts and enhance overall well-being. We take careful precautions to ensure the safety and comfort of our clients, and we collaborate with healthcare providers when needed to offer the most comprehensive care during pregnancy and postpartum recovery.
Plan a Visit
Scheduling an appointment with Halifax RMT is simple and straightforward. Our rates are competitive, and we accept various forms of payment to make the process convenient. Additionally, we collaborate with private insurance clients and can assist with any required paperwork, ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish.
