Why does my upper back hurt when breastfeeding?

Understanding Upper Back Pain During Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a beautiful and essential bonding experience between a mother and her baby, but it can also come with its share of physical challenges. One common issue many breastfeeding mothers face is upper back pain. This discomfort can stem from several factors related to posture, body mechanics, and the physical demands of nursing.
Causes of Upper Back Pain
1. Posture and Positioning: One of the primary reasons for upper back pain during breastfeeding is poor posture. Many mothers find themselves in awkward positions for extended periods while nursing, which can lead to muscle strain. As physical therapist Samantha Charlotin notes, “Breastfeeding requires you to stay in one position for long periods,” and this can accumulate discomfort over time.
2. Breast Size and Weight: The physical changes that occur during pregnancy and breastfeeding, such as increased breast size, can also contribute to back pain. The added weight can place extra strain on the upper back, leading to discomfort. Wearing a supportive bra can help alleviate some of this strain, providing better support for the breasts and reducing the load on the back.
3. Muscle Weakness and Overstretching: The act of breastfeeding can lead to certain muscles becoming overstretched and weak, particularly in the upper back and shoulders. This is often exacerbated by the forward-leaning posture many mothers adopt while nursing. Over time, this can alter the mechanics of the back and neck, leading to pain and discomfort.
4. Previous Pregnancy Strain: Pregnancy itself can cause changes in the body that may predispose a mother to back pain. Hormonal changes and the physical demands of carrying a baby can lead to joint instability and muscle imbalances, which may become more pronounced during breastfeeding.
Managing and Relieving Pain
To combat upper back pain while breastfeeding, mothers can adopt several strategies:
– Adjusting Positions: Finding a comfortable and supportive position is crucial. Using pillows to support the back and arms can help maintain a better posture during nursing sessions.

– Strengthening Exercises: Engaging in exercises that strengthen the upper back and core can provide better support and reduce pain. Physical therapists often recommend specific stretches and strengthening routines tailored for new mothers.
– Taking Breaks: It’s important to take breaks during long nursing sessions. Shifting positions or taking a moment to stretch can help alleviate tension and prevent pain from building up.
– Consulting Professionals: If pain persists, consulting with a healthcare provider or a lactation consultant can provide insights into proper latching techniques and positioning that may help reduce discomfort.
Conclusion
Upper back pain during breastfeeding is a common issue that can arise from a combination of poor posture, physical changes, and muscle strain. By understanding the causes and implementing strategies to manage pain, mothers can create a more comfortable breastfeeding experience. Remember, it’s essential to listen to your body and seek help if discomfort continues, ensuring that both mother and baby can enjoy this special time together.

Can dairy cause upper back pain?

Allergies and intolerances
Share on Pinterest Inflammation and back pain may be caused by dairy, gluten, and sugar. People with allergies or intolerances to certain foods may experience inflammation after eating them. If they already have back pain, the inflammation can make symptoms worse.

Can breastfeeding hormones cause back pain?

Prostaglandins are released during the course of breastfeeding, and when you wean, the levels of these hormones in your body will shift. Any shift in this hormone can lead to acute or even chronic back pain, according to the journal, Spine.

Why does my upper back hurt between my shoulder blades and chest?

Upper back pain between the shoulder blades may result from poor posture or muscle strain. However, it can also stem from problems with the spine, such as scoliosis or osteoarthritis. These may need medical attention. Treatments for mild upper back pain include stretching exercises and pain relievers.

What causes upper back pain in females?

The common causes of upper back pain stem from inflammation and micro-tears in the muscles, tendons and ligaments of the upper back or from arthritis, herniated disks, vertebral stenosis, or misalignments in the thoracic or cervical spine.

Why does my upper back pain radiate to my breast?

When a spinal nerve in the thoracic spine (upper back) becomes compressed or inflamed, such as by a bone spur (abnormal bone growth) or thoracic herniated disc, pain may travel along the nerve from the upper back to the chest.

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.

Why does my upper back hurt while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding upper back pain
Upper back pain is common and can present with a sore neck, sore spinal cord, and sore upper back after a feeding session. Remember not to look down at the baby or hunch over too much. Sit in the correct position to avoid breastfeeding upper back pain (tips on those below!).

What helps upper back pain from breasts?

There are numerous non-surgical ways to temporarily relieve and reduce upper back pain caused by large breasts, including getting properly fitted bras, physical therapy, and exercises to strengthen target muscle groups.

Why does my upper back hurt so much postpartum?

During pregnancy and postpartum, your breasts are bigger in size and sometimes even disproportionate. This increased weight (mostly fat) is now carried by your cervical and thoracic spine causing your shoulders and upper back to be pulled forward.

What is a nursing mother’s neck symptoms?

The repeated posture and motion of breastfeeding can cause strain on your neck. Often called “nursing mother’s neck”, this type of strain on your neck can cause pain, burning, numbness or tingling. It can also sometimes cause headaches in addition to the other symptoms.