Managing Low Back Pain in Pregnancy with Ayurveda

Are you struggling with low back pain during your pregnancy? We understand how challenging it can be to manage the discomfort of low back pain while carrying the beautiful responsibility of growing a new life. Thankfully, Ayurveda offers gentle, effective solutions to help you feel better and ease your journey. Let’s explore how this ancient wisdom can help you find relief and restore balance during this important time.

Low back pain is common during pregnancy, especially as your body adapts to the growing baby. As the uterus expands, it places additional pressure on your lower back and pelvic region. Hormonal changes also relax the ligaments, leading to less stable joints and discomfort.
From an Ayurveda perspective, low back pain (referred to as Katigraha) is primarily caused by an imbalance in Vata dosha, which governs movement and flexibility in the body. Ayurveda identifies several factors that can aggravate Vata and contribute to low back pain: Ayurveda identifies several Nidana (causative factors) that aggravate Vata and contribute to low back pain:

1. Aahara (Dietary factors): Consumption of Vata-aggravating foods like Ruksha Anna (dry foods).
2. Vihara (Lifestyle factors): Prolonged sitting, heavy lifting, or excessive travelling.
3. Maanasika dosha (Mental stress): Anxiety (Chinta) and grief (Shoka) and other such problems of mind can exacerbate Vata.
4. Aggravation of Apana Vata: This sub-type of Vata, located in the lower abdomen, governs childbirth but can also become imbalanced, causing pain and discomfort in the lower back.

Understanding these causative factors is essential for identifying and avoiding them. Ayurveda offers a wholesome solution for both prevention and treatment of this condition. Read the next section to find out more.

Ayurveda offers a comprehensive and gentle solution for managing low back pain during pregnancy, focusing on prevention, internal and external therapies, and a balanced diet.

1. Nidaana parivarjana (Avoid Causative Factors)

Since pregnancy itself is a contributing factor, the focus is on minimizing other lifestyle factors that can worsen low back pain:

• Ruksha (dry), sheeta (cold potent) and other vata aggravating foods.
• Other existing health conditions that can exacerbate your low back pain such as constipation. Regular bowel movements are very much essential for vatanulomana     (proper downward movement of Vata).
• Avoid certain lifestyle factors (viharas) that can contribute to low back pain, such as uncomfortable postures, prolonged sitting, Faulty sleeping postures and uncomfortable beddings, excessive travelling, etc. Use soft and comfortable bedding for sleeping.
• Stress and anxiety should be avoided to ensure vata balance, which can further aggravate your low back pain.

The causes of lower back pain can vary greatly from one woman to another. Ayurveda emphasizes personalized care, recognizing that each individual's needs are unique. To truly understand the underlying factors contributing to your pain and find the most effective solutions, consult with our expert doctors for a tailored treatment plan designed specifically for you.

2. External Therapies (Baahya Chikitsa)

Ayurveda treatment protocols involve external therapies that are very effective in reducing the pain associated with this condition. These external therapies include many procedures. Let us take a quick look at them.

1. Snehana – Oleation Therapy

Snehana is the application of medicated oils to nourish and pacify aggravated Vata. Snehana involves applying medicated oils to the body, which can help manage low back pain, especially when caused by aggravated Vata.

The oils nourish the tissues and improve blood flow, reducing stiffness and promoting healing. They also calm Vata, which can lessen pain and tension. Additionally, the massage that often comes with the application helps relax the back muscles and increases flexibility. Medicated Ayurveda oils also have anti-inflammatory properties, providing direct relief from pain and swelling. In essence, they reduce stiffness or Stambha and pain or Ruk. There are many Ayurveda oils dedicated to pregnant mothers. Consult with our doctors to find the best oil for your condition.

2.  Swedana  or sudation therapy

Swedana, or sudation therapy, can help relieve low back pain by applying heat to the affected area, which helps to alleviate stiffness and relax tense muscles. This procedure aids in balancing the aggravated vata in your lower back region. Swedana is Stambhaghna (alleviates stiffness), Gauravaghna (relieves heaviness), and Shitaghna (removes coldness). Garbhini is included under swedana anarha (not suitable for the procedure); however, in cases of conditions like low backache, local swedana can be performed with proper care and for a limited duration

Caution: Excessive heat should be avoided during pregnancy. The therapy must be performed under expert supervision.

3. Kati Pichu- Localised treatment

Have you heard of Kati Pichu? It’s a traditional Ayurvedic therapy that's particularly helpful for tackling localized pain and stiffness, especially in the lower back. The process involves using a thick cotton pad that’s soaked in warm, medicated oil, which is then placed right on the painful area. Essentially, it falls under the category of "Pichu" treatments, designed to provide targeted oil therapy for Vata-related issues, like joint pain and conditions that come with ageing. It’s quite a soothing approach for those dealing with low back pain.
The choice of oil, the time of retention, etc., depends on the patient's condition. Ayurveda doctor supervision is essential for this procedure. Connect with our team of experts for better care.

3. Internal Therapies

In Ayurveda, internal therapies play a crucial role in managing various health issues, including low back pain. These therapies work by addressing the root causes of discomfort rather than just alleviating symptoms. 
One of the standout treatments for Vata disorders, particularly for low back pain, is Vasti or a medicated enema. But in Garbhini, it is done only after 7 months. This therapy not only targets the pain but also promotes overall wellness by balancing the body's doshas.
Vasti comes in two main forms: Niruha Vasti, which uses a medicated decoction for cleansing enema, and Anuvasana Vasti, an oleation enema that incorporates medicated oils like Eranda Taila. Both types offer incredible benefits, such as rejuvenating the spine and restoring normal Vata movement, known as Vata Anulomana. 
Another effective approach is Mrudu Virechana, or gentle purgation, which helps eliminate excess Vata. Generally, a medicated ghee or oil along with warm milk is used for this therapy. Together, these treatments not only relieve low back pain but also enhance overall vitality and balance within the body. All these can help to balance the Katee vata (vata located in the lower back region)
Caution: These procedures should not be done without the supervision of an expert Ayurveda doctor.

4. Ayurveda Internal Medicines

When it comes to managing pain and stiffness during pregnancy, certain medicinal formulations in Ayurveda are truly effective. Ayurveda internal medications help in relaxation as well as strengthening the lower back region. Many decoctions, powders and tablets are available, which are very safe for the baby and the mother. Consult an Ayurveda practitioner for personalised advice.

Rasayana therapy focuses on rejuvenation and enhancing vitality, making it especially beneficial for pregnant women by providing optimal nourishment for both mother and baby. Additionally, medicated milk and ghee are known for their rasayana properties, further contributing to this comprehensive approach to health and well-being.

5. Ayurveda Diet (Pathya-Apathya)

Diet plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy pregnancy and managing Vata-related disorders like low back pain.
 

• Pathya (What to Consume):
  • Ghrita (Ghee): Ghee helps to strengthen the nerves in the Lower Back Area and also to regulate vata.
  • Taila (Oil): Consuming foods processed with oils can be beneficial for regulating the vata.
  • Madhura Rasa (Sweet-tasting foods): Such as milk, and rice help nourish and balance Vata.
  • Koshna jala: Consuming lukewarm water can help 
     
• Apathya (What to Avoid):
  • Rooksha Aahara (Dry foods): Such as crackers and puffed rice, as they aggravate Vata.
  • Katu or Tiktha Rasa (Pungent And Bitter Foods): Such as excessive chillies, which disturb the balance of doshas.
  • Sheeta Jala: Avoid drinking cold water

6. Lifestyle Modifications (Dinacharya)

Adopting a Vata-pacifying daily routine is essential to managing low back pain during pregnancy.

• Posture Awareness: Ensure you keep good posture, whether sitting or standing. Utilise cushions to support your back.
• Limit Heavy Lifting: Avoid lifting heavy objects to reduce unnecessary stress on your lower back.
• Gentle Stretching: Add mild stretches to your daily routine to improve flexibility and alleviate stiffness.
• Stay Hydrated: Consume warm water infused with fennel or cumin seeds to support digestion and help maintain Vata balance.

Role of Prenatal Care ( Garbhini Paricharya)

Ayurveda pret-natal care, also known as Garbhini Paricharya, encompasses detailed pregnancy-specific care where not only the mother but the foetus will also benefit. It essentially covers and prevents all the physical as well as emotional challenges affecting the mother, including Low back pain. To know more about Grabhini Paricharya, read our blog here (link to that blog)

In addition to these, yoga practice can also benefit those suffering from low back pain during pregnancy. There are several yoga poses that can positively help in managing your low back pain. Read more about this in our blog ( link to that blog)

To wrap things up, dealing with low back pain during pregnancy might seem daunting, but Ayurveda provides a soothing and effective path to relief. By gaining insight into the causes of your pain and addressing what triggers an imbalance in Vata, you can create a more pleasant pregnancy experience. It's not just about avoiding certain foods or activities; incorporating therapies like oleation, sudation, and Katee Pichu can significantly ease your discomfort, allowing you to enjoy this beautiful phase of life.
Listening to your body is key, and seeking personalised advice from Ayurveda practitioners can ensure that you receive a tailored approach suited to your individual needs. Since every pregnancy journey is distinct, what brings comfort to one person may differ for another. So, take charge of your well-being, explore these natural remedies, and remember that a healthy mom leads to a healthy baby. By equipping yourself with the right knowledge and support, you can gracefully figure out the challenges of pregnancy and completely embrace the joys that come along with it.