Back pain in pregnancy is very common, affecting an estimated 50 percent to 80 percent of pregnant women. During pregnancy, the ligaments in your body naturally become softer and stretch to prepare you for labor. This can put a strain on the joints of your lower back and pelvis, which can cause back pain. It can range from mild pain associated with specific activities to acute pain that becomes chronic. About 10 percent of the time the pain becomes so severe that it can interfere with the ability to work or carry out normal activities during pregnancy. Studies show that lower back pain usually occurs between the fifth and seventh months of being pregnant, although in some cases it begins as early as eight to 12 weeks. Women with pre-existing lower back problems are at higher risk for back pain, and their back pain can occur earlier in their pregnancy. Acupuncture is a safe and effective modality in treating low back pain during pregnancy, along with electro-stimulation or Moxa.
