Prevalence of Neck and Low Back Pain in Women During Post-Partum Period

Abstract

Background: Due to the changes in the woman's body during and after birth, neck and back pain are common complaints among postpartum women. Objective: To determine the prevalence of neck and low back pain in the post-partum period of pregnancy. Methods This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out within six months after the approval of the synopsis. After receiving their written consent, participants from the Jinnah and Services hospitals were given a standard questionnaire to complete. Pregnant females aged between 20-40 years of age were included in the study. Those having complications like gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia or other serious conditions were excluded from the study. A predesigned Nordic questionnaire was utilized for the data collection purpose. A total of 19 closed-ended questions were included in the survey, covering the subjects' demographic information, parity, recent C-section or normal delivery, physical activity, low back and neck pain during the postpartum period. After completing the questionnaire, data was gathered to assess the prevalence of neck and low back pain. Using SPSS 22.0, the data was analyzed and for the quantitative variables, means and standard deviations were computed, while the qualitative variables were shown as frequency and percentage. Results: Among 119 postpartum women, 53 (44.5%) had a normal vaginal birth and 66 (55.5%) had the cesarean mode of delivery, 43 (36.1%) were breastfeeding, 22 (18.49%) were bottle-feeding and 54 (45.38%) were given both. In 12 months, 62 (52.10%) reported neck pain, whereas 80 (67.23%) reported low back pain. Women experiencing neck pain were 53(44.54%) and 72(60.50%) in the previous 7 days respectively. Conclusion: The study revealed that the frequency of neck pain and lower back pain was found to be 44.54% and 60.5% respectively in pregnant females.

Contactless exercise intervention in prenatal and postnatal period during COVID-19 lowers the risk of postpartum depression

“…The severity of pain might either persist or worsen due to factors such as incorrect posture and habits, holding the baby on one side, or the overuse of smart devices 20 , 54 . According to a recent survey, 90% of early postpartum women (from postpartum to 21 weeks of age) who do not exercise experience abdominal muscle relaxation, which causes back pain, urinary incontinence, and pelvic girdle pain 55 . On the other hand, pregnant women who participate in regular physical activities relieve physical fatigue, back pain, and pelvic pain and reduce the risk of sleep disorders and depression 56 , 57 .…”

Effectiveness of Antenatal Exercises Program for the Management of Neck and Shoulder Pain

“…Pregnancy represents a period of significant transformation and adaptation in a woman's life, characterized by extensive physiological changes designed to support the developing fetus (1,2). This period, while often associated with anticipation and joy, also introduces various physical discomforts, with neck and shoulder pain emerging as prevalent issues that impact a significant number of expectant mothers (2)(3)(4). The root causes of these discomforts are multifaceted, involving hormonal fluctuations, alterations in posture, and increased strain on the musculoskeletal system.…”