December 2014 Moms

Heating Pad?

My upper-mid back has been killing me lately. I've put a heating pad on it a couple times, but a friend just told me I'm not supposed to use a heating pad. I was under the impression as long as the heat wasn't placed directly on my stomach it was okay...anyone know?

Also, is anyone else experiencing back pain in their upper-mid back? I know lower back pain is to be expected but mine has been higher than that and I'm not sure why since my baby isn't that high yet.

Re: Heating Pad?

  • You are fine to use the heating pad anywhere but on your abdomen. Just make sure your overall body temp doesn't get crazy high (if you feel "too hot" or get woozy, than baby isn't feeling good either).

    I have back issues and I notice that I tend to hunch forward around my bump as I get bigger. If you sit a lot during the day, make sure you have lumbar support for your lower back and put something under your feet to take some strain off your back (small stool or even a waste paper basket on it's side). Also, remember to stand up, stretch, and walk around every hour or two. Between boobs and bump, the front of your body is probably a lot heavier than usual so some back soreness is to be expected.
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  • I've been having some pain in my mid-upper back also. I feel like my upper ribs are moving or something, so not comfortable but I have found that the heating pad does help and popping my back!
    Baby Birthday Ticker Ticker
  • You can totally use a heating pad. It's part of my daily routine and was recommended by my ob.
    Pregnancy Ticker
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  • I call it upper bra strap pain or shoulder blade pain, but yep I get it too.
  • Currently feeling the worst back pain! Didn't help that I was driving/sitting all day. Going to try a heat pad, thanks ladies!
  • CandEChicagoCandEChicago member
    edited August 2014
    If you are concerned about using an electric heating pad for your back have you considered using a microwaveable moist heat style? Also what does your OB say?  I would trust my OB's professional medical advice versus internet strangers (sorry D14 ladies).

    Also with regards to the abdomen and hot packs.  There are some circumstances where it can be medical approved and beneficial... though I would not recommend doing it without consulting a medical professional.  My case was when I was in the ER and subsequent hospital stay. 

    Edit:  Yikes!  I should not be on the bump at 5:30am.  Edited the above passage so that may more clearly reflect what I was trying to say. 


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  • Eora3 said:

    You are fine to use the heating pad anywhere but on your abdomen. Just make sure your overall body temp doesn't get crazy high (if you feel "too hot" or get woozy, than baby isn't feeling good either).

    I have back issues and I notice that I tend to hunch forward around my bump as I get bigger. If you sit a lot during the day, make sure you have lumbar support for your lower back and put something under your feet to take some strain off your back (small stool or even a waste paper basket on it's side). Also, remember to stand up, stretch, and walk around every hour or two. Between boobs and bump, the front of your body is probably a lot heavier than usual so some back soreness is to be expected.

    This. Exactly!

  • Eora3 said:
    You are fine to use the heating pad anywhere but on your abdomen. Just make sure your overall body temp doesn't get crazy high (if you feel "too hot" or get woozy, than baby isn't feeling good either). 
    Yep, I agree.  I've done a heating pad on my lower back.  Also, maybe put a towel or something between you and the pad.
    BabyFetus Ticker

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    Married DH May 2011
    BFP #1 - 3.28.14
    EDD - 12.10.14

  • I use a heating pad every night before bed on my back, and it is heaven. Just keep it away from the bump and don't let yourself get too hot.
    BabyFruit Ticker
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