Prevention and management of common exercise-related musculoskeletal injuries during pregnancy

Abstract

Pregnancy causes additional alterations to the female athlete’s body that she must be aware of. The hormonal, bodily, and biochemical changes that accompany the pregnant state can incite new symptoms and may cause additional avenues for musculoskeletal trauma. Precaution does need to be taken by the pregnant female when participating in certain physical activities. However, in general the female athlete can be very active up until delivery if she’s careful to protect the fetus. An already existing injury can be exacerbated by pregnancy, although in most cases symptoms tend to cease shortly after delivery. On the other hand, maintaining an active lifestyle while pregnant helps the mother as well as the fetus to be healthier in the long run.