JOY FEELINGS MAGAZINE may-june 2015 | Page 37

and Managing Back Pain During Pregnancy. Manufacturers such as Born, Naturalizer, and Easy Spirit offer great options. If you're in a situation that requires you to sit for an extended amount of time, make sure you're in the most supportive position possible: Sit so that your hips and lower back are touching the back of the seat and your knees are bent at a 90-degree angle. It's also a good idea to place a lumbar support pillow between the chair and your lower back. "The pillow will improve your sitting posture by reducing head and neck slouching," explains Silva. Lift Properly Avoid picking up heavy objects during pregnancy Joy feelings magazine and follow these tips for light-to-moderate lifting: Keep your back straight, bend at the knees, lift with your legs, keep the object close to your body, and avoid a twist and lift motion. If you must twist, turn your entire body and feet to face the new location, rather than swiveling at the waist. (Use the same techniques postpartum when picking up your baby and any of his gear.) Most important, remember to ask for help when you need it. If ever there was a time when people are happy to come to your rescue, it's now. Stay Active Regular exercise can help keep your back strong, but be sure to check with your doctor before beginning any type of program. Dr.