WHY DOES MY UPPER BACK AND RIBS HURT WHEN I’M PREGNANT?

There are many things that change in a woman’s body when she becomes pregnant. Often people think about changes that result in low back, pelvic or foot pain. However sometimes people are surprised when they have upper back and rib pain when pregnant. Keep reading as we discuss some of the causes of mid back and rib pain when pregnant.

As the baby grows it takes up more space in your abdomen, this forces your organs to be pushed up and to the side. There is an expansion of your rib cage to allow the increasing size of the baby and the movement of your organs. This can result in discomfort through the front, side or back of the ribs. 

An increase in breast size can create more weight at the front of the chest which increases the strain through the back and can lead to fatigue and soreness through the muscle in your mid back . 

When pregnant your stomach grows as the baby grows, which changes your centre of gravity. In response to this, the curves of your lower back change to stop you toppling forward as your belly grows. As a result of the changing curve of your lower back the upper back spinal curve also changes which can be a source of mid back pain. 

These factors can result in pain and restriction through your ribcage and upper back. As an Osteopath we look at ways we can help your adjusting body cope with these changes and how we can support it throughout your pregnancy.  

Once a baby is born the body changes again. Activities including carrying a baby, breast or bottle feeding and all the other postures involved in caring for a young child influence your musculoskeletal system. These can also impact your mid back and contribute to pain.