I have always been in pretty good health, so I was surprised one day when my doctor told me my blood pressure was a bit high. She told me to begin watching my salt intake, start exercising, and to try to relax. Well, I intended to follow her advice when I left her office, but the next day I was back to my same habits. I kept using the salt shaker and didn't begin an exercise routine like I had planned. When I went for my next check-up, she told me that my blood pressure was even higher and approaching a dangerous level. I had to begin a blood pressure medication to manage it. I wanted to create a blog to share my story and remind people to listen to their doctors' advice. If a few lifestyle changes can improve your health, then you should make them.
A certain amount of joint pain or discomfort can be normal during pregnancy and after childbirth. Carrying extra weight, changes in posture, and the joint-loosening hormone relaxin can add up to loose ligaments around the pelvis, knees, and ankles. However, some women experience more extreme or long lasting joint pain that lowers their quality of life. If you are experiencing joint pain after childbirth and are wondering whether you should see an orthopedic doctor for help, here are some guidelines:
Your Joint Pain Is Sharp or Intense
Normal pregnancy-related joint pain is a dull, achy pain. While sharp pains may not be a sign of more significant joint trauma, it is still a good idea to get it checked out. If you experience a sharp pain in your hip or knee while stepping on your foot or if you experience a significant popping sensation, consider popping into your orthopedic doctor.
Your Joint Pain Lasts More Than Six Months
As your body heals from childbirth, your joint pain should subside. If your joint pain is getting worse instead of better, you should make an appointment with a doctor. Even if your pain is not getting worse, if you do not notice improvement after several months, especially if you have lost a significant portion of your pregnancy weight and not noticed improvement, you should go in for an assessment.
Your Joint Pain Puts You or Your Infant in Danger
Sudden, sharp pain in your knee or hip can make you buckle, sometimes falling to the ground or bending over. This can be dangerous if you are holding an infant at the time. If you experience a sensation of your joint "giving out," you should contact a doctor about it.
You Are Concerned About Your Joint Pain
You know your body best. Even if your joint pain does not fit one of the above situations, if you feel like it may be problematic, you should have it checked out by a professional.
You should keep in mind that for many postpartum women, joint pain or loose joints can be corrected with lifestyle changes, exercises, and a supportive brace. Because it can take up to a year for your joints to return to normal after pregnancy, your orthopedic doctor may opt for a less aggressive form of treatment that focuses on reducing your pain and stabilizing your joint instead of a more invasive procedure such as surgery.
Contact a medical office like Orthopaedic Associates Of Rochester for more information and assistance.
Share19 September 2017
