How can pregnant women safely relieve low-back pain?

Abstract

Acetaminophen is safe for use in pregnancy but lacks evidence of efficacy (strength of recommendation [SOR]: C, usual practice). Both physical therapy and water aerobics reduce sick days caused by low-back pain (strength of recommendation [SOR]: B, randomized controlled trial [RCT]). Acupuncture, including auricular acupuncture, also relieves low-back pain and improves function (SOR: B, 2 RCTs). Osteopathic manipulative therapy (OMT) slightly improves disability (SOR: B, RCT). Corticosteroid injection at the sacrospinous ligament insertion decreases pain (SOR: B, RCT). Insufficient evidence of efficacy exists for support garments (SOR: B, systematic review). No serious maternal or fetal adverse effects have been reported with any of these therapies.