Why do I get pain in my back when breastfeeding?

Understanding Back Pain During Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is often celebrated for its numerous benefits to both mother and child, but it can also come with its own set of challenges, one of which is back pain. Many mothers experience discomfort in their backs while nursing, and understanding the underlying causes can help alleviate this issue.
Causes of Back Pain While Breastfeeding
Poor Posture
One of the primary culprits behind back pain during breastfeeding is poor posture. When mothers breastfeed, they may find themselves slouching or leaning forward to bring their baby closer. This can lead to muscle strain, particularly in the upper back and neck. Physiotherapist Sabrina Nieland emphasizes that improper positioning—whether it’s the way the baby is held or how the mother supports herself—can significantly contribute to discomfort.
Physical Strain from Baby Care
The physical demands of caring for a newborn can also exacerbate back pain. Activities such as lifting the baby in and out of cribs, carrying them around, and even the repetitive motions involved in breastfeeding can put additional strain on the back. This cumulative effect can lead to chronic discomfort, especially if proper ergonomic practices are not followed.
Residual Pain from Pregnancy
For many mothers, back pain during breastfeeding may not solely stem from the act of nursing itself. It can also be a continuation of discomfort experienced during pregnancy. The body undergoes significant changes during this time, and some women may find that lingering pain from labor and delivery persists into the postpartum period.
Tips for Relief
To combat back pain while breastfeeding, several strategies can be employed:
1. Optimize Your Position: Ensure that both you and your baby are in a comfortable position. Use pillows to support your back and arms, and try to keep your baby at breast height to avoid leaning forward.
2. Take Breaks: If you’re nursing for extended periods, take breaks to stretch and change positions. This can help relieve tension in your back muscles.
3. Strengthening Exercises: Engaging in exercises that strengthen the back and core can provide long-term relief. Simple stretches and strengthening routines can help counteract the effects of poor posture.
4. Seek Professional Help: If back pain persists, consulting with a physical therapist can provide personalized strategies and exercises tailored to your specific needs.
Conclusion
While breastfeeding is a rewarding experience, it can also lead to back pain due to factors like poor posture, physical strain, and residual discomfort from pregnancy. By understanding these causes and implementing strategies for relief, mothers can enjoy a more comfortable breastfeeding journey. Remember, it’s important to listen to your body and seek help if pain becomes a persistent issue.

What are the symptoms of nursing mother’s neck?

The perpetual task of feeding your baby can cause a repetitive sprain strain injury to the neck, upper back and mid back. This injury can cause pain, burning, numbness and tingling in the neck, upper back, shoulder blade area, and arms. Headaches are a common symptom as well.

Why does my back hurt when I breastfeed?

Breastfeeding lower back pain Lower back pain is common after birth and while breastfeeding. Whether you gave birth vaginally or via cesarean, your abdominal muscles have been hard at work, and their instability can lead to back pain and poor posture.

What are the symptoms of calcium deficiency in breastfeeding mothers?

Muscle Cramps and Weakness
Lactating mothers experiencing unexplained muscle cramps or weakness may be exhibiting early signs of calcium deficiency.

What helps back pain in nursing?

9 Ways to Prevent Nurse Back Pain

1. #1 Lift and Bend Correctly.
2. #2 Apply Hot and Cold Therapy.
3. #3 Get a Solid Night’s Sleep.
4. #4 Wear Supportive Shoes.
5. #5 Maintain a Strong Core.
6. #6 Sleep on a Firm Mattress.
7. #7 Exercise Regularly.
8. #8 Avoid Movements That Cause Pain.

Why does my body hurt when I breastfeed?

Breast and nipple pain during lactation is most commonly related to the actual breastfeeding, for example to poor attachment, a blocked duct, mastitis or nipple infections. However, pain in breastfeeding mothers can also be musculoskeletal in origin – that is, pain can be related to the bones, muscles and joints etc.

How to breastfeed without hurting your back?

The Best Breastfeeding Positions to Help With Back Pain

1. Sit with your knees bent at a 90 degree angle.
2. Bring your baby up to your level.
3. Try lying on your side with your bottom arm stretched over your head to support your back while you recline.
4. Recline tummy to tummy with your baby.

How long does postpartum back pain last?

Postpartum back pain typically lasts about six months. This may vary from person to person, depending upon if it’s your first time having a child, if you had twins or triplets, or whether or not you have birth naturally or via c-section.

What position should you avoid while breastfeeding?

Avoid leaning your breast forward into your baby’s mouth, as this can lead to poor attachment. Your baby needs to get a big mouthful of breast. Placing your baby with their nose level with your nipple will encourage them to open their mouth wide and attach to the breast well.

What causes back pain in postpartum?

Caring for a baby around the clock can cause strain to your back and surrounding muscles. Mothers tend to do a lot of hunching over while breastfeeding. They also do a lot of bending over to pick up children and other objects. This can strain the upper back and neck muscles.

How long does it take for your body to go back to normal after birth?

Postpartum starts immediately after childbirth and generally lasts six to eight weeks. Your body goes through many physical and emotional changes during this time, with some symptoms lasting months after you give birth.