Prenatal Massage Therapy

Mama’s Growing Pains

During pregnancy a lot of changes occur. Many of these changes affect the musculoskeletal system. This is why massage is an affective way to relieve some of those symptoms

Why so tired when there’s all that Relaxin?

Relaxin (a pregnancy hormone) is produced as early as two weeks into the pregnancy, is at its highest levels in the first trimester, then drops 20 percent and remains at that level until labour.

It affects the collagen in the joint capsules, ligaments, and fascia. The most vulnerable joints are the pubic symphysis, the sacroiliac joint and weight bearing joints (mainly the feet!!!).

While Relaxin is not the only example of why moms feel uncomfortable during pregnancy, it is a leading factor.

What’s with the baby aching?

From the inside out, you are not alone! Other moms are feeling symptoms similar to yours; here are some examples of symptoms that might relate to you and the reasons why massage could help:

Sciatica- With the sacroiliac joint being affected this can cause changes to the muscles surrounding that area and some women may experience sciatica. Sciatica is a condition that compresses the sciatic nerve and causes burning/shooting pain in the gluteal area and down the back of the leg.

With massage the RMT is able to realign the hips creating less pressure on the sciatic nerve, and also loosen up tight muscles that are compressing the sciatic nerve.

Insomnia and Restlessness- Due to so many changes occurring in the body sometimes pregnant women find it difficult to fall asleep at night from all the tossing and turning. Massage can (sometimes only temporarily) relieve the general discomfort women are experiencing and have a better nights sleep.

Compression Syndromes- Thoracic outlet syndrome and carpal tunnel syndrome may occur after hand and arm edema (a condition characterized by an excess of watery fluid collecting in the cavities or tissues of the body). Hands may feel stiff and have the sensation of pins and needles. Massage can help relieve the compression from muscles and edema.

Leg cramps- especially calve cramps. The cramping becomes more common in third trimester and at night time. Massage helps to flush out metabolites and also helps to relieve the tightness in the calve muscles that is often felt the following day.

Whatever mama’s growing pains you are experiencing; at Restore we would be honoured to be apart of your journey by providing you with exceptional prenatal massage therapy to alleviate some of your discomfort and ensure a comfortable pregnancy.