Shiatsu could ease the body tensions and aches of pregnancy, whether it be strains in your back, a headache or pelvic pain
Posted: 23 April 2009
by Dr Rana Conway, nutritionist
Shiatsu is a traditional Japanese form of healing that involves massage with small movements of the hand or thumb, along with stretches and gentle manipulation of joints. It can be used to relieve pregnancy aches, such as:
- Backache
- Headaches
- Sciatica
- Pelvic discomfort or pain
It’s intended to correct imbalances in the flow of energy or ‘ki’ around the body, which practitioners believe is the root cause of many ailments.
Mum's story
"I was creeping around like an old lady"
Expert Tip
To help with back pain, watch your posture. Walk tall and put a cushion behind your lower back when you sit down.
Dr Rana Conway, nutritionist
“I had never done any kind of alternative therapy in my life, but my sister recommended shiatsu when she saw me sitting down really awkwardly when I went to visit her.
"I was only 20 weeks pregnant but already my body felt really achy and tired. She told me I mustn’t spend the next 20 weeks creeping round like an old lady!
"I went to see this specialist and it was so gentle and relaxing, not at all as physically hard as I thought it would be, and it really helped.”
Fiona, 34, mum to Lotta, 2
