The Impact of Motherhood on Joint Health: Balancing Responsibilities and Self-Care

Motherhood is one of the most rewarding, fulfilling, and fun jobs in the world. But it can also be a real challenge, and sometimes, we can forget to acknowledge the physical demands of motherhood, particularly when it comes to muscles and joints. 

Here, we'll discuss the impact motherhood can have on your joints and the importance of self-care for keeping your body healthy and happy. 

What Is Self-Care for Mothers?

Self-care is a popular buzzword in the mommy-sphere these days, but too often, self-care advice focuses on temporary reprieves from our busy lives rather than suggestions that bring lasting benefits.

While activities like a day at the spa or a weekly night out can make you feel like a new woman, it's important to remember that self-care isn't just about the occasional pampering or kid-friendly hour. Taking care of your body and getting the help you need is self-care, too!

How To Deal With the Balancing Act of Responsibilities

You may be thinking, “I'd love to be healthier and take care of my body. But there's just no time!” 

Moms have a lot on their plates (and no matter how old your kids get, the list never seems to get shorter). You have to feed babies, get them dressed, change their diapers, manage nap schedules, and a whole lot more — and that's before you even think about other responsibilities! Between housework, your job, and motherhood, it can feel like self-care just doesn't fit in the schedule. 

Not only can you fit in self-care, but you should do everything possible to fit it into your routine! Delegate extra parenting duties to your partner, family members, or friends. Let the dishes sit in the sink for an extra hour or two. Taking time for self-care will make accomplishing everything left on your list easier when you're done.

Common Joint Pains in New Moms

Many women know to expect some discomfort in their earliest days of motherhood. They know to expect cramping, sore breasts and muscles, and plenty of exhaustion. But fewer know exactly how being a mom can affect their joints. 

Here are a few common joint pains you may experience after having a baby:

Fingers and Wrists

The joints in your hands and wrists may be sore in the first days of your baby's life. There are several reasons why a woman may experience hand and wrist pain, such as physical strain or fluid retention in the wrists (a side effect of hormone changes).

Hips

The hips and pelvis are among the most common places for joint pain in pregnancy and after delivery. This joint pain is due to a hormone called relaxin. During pregnancy, your ovaries and placenta produce relaxin, which loosens your pelvic joints and muscles. Relaxin is very beneficial during delivery, but its effects (plus the process of giving birth) can leave your hip joints very sore. 

Knees

It's common for women to gain between 25 and 35 pounds during pregnancy. This weight gain can put extra strain on a woman's limbs and joints, including her knees. You may still experience some joint pain in your knees after giving birth as your postpartum body recovers from the past nine months. 

When To Get Professional Help

Postpartum joint pain can be very uncomfortable, but new moms can take comfort in the knowledge that it's often temporary. In many cases, your pain will naturally decrease as your hormone levels stabilize and your body returns to its pre-pregnancy state.

However, in some cases, postpartum joint pain can be a symptom of greater problems. Your pain may indicate that you've developed carpal tunnel syndrome, hyperthyroidism, or even rheumatoid arthritis. If this happens, you may need to consider regenerative treatment, if joint pain persists after giving birth or if it worsens with time.

The Importance of Self-Care

Life these days can be stressful for anyone — and that goes double if you're a new mom. You're busy caring for a precious new life, and your body is recovering from the crazy experience of pregnancy and birth! Your body, mind, and soul need plenty of time to rest and recuperate, which is why self-care is so important. So don't hesitate to carve out a little time for yourself. You need it, and your loved ones will benefit from you feeling your best.