Abstract

The aim of the study was to evaluate the overall trend and specific changes in somatic features and spinal curvatures during pregnancy. The study group comprised 30 women aged 20 to 35 years whose spine was assessed from the 3rd month of pregnancy until the delivery and during the postpartum period of 3 months following the delivery. Physiological curvatures of the spine were assessed with Penny&Giles electrogoniometer as proposed by Boocock et al. During pregnancy there is increase in transverse and sagittal dimensions of the chest, i the depth of the pubic symphysis, the width of the pelvis and the anterior flexion of the pelvis, as well as the body weight. Our study confirms the effect of pregnancy on the functional curvatures of the spine with flattening of both lordoses.The changes are probably the result of strong tension of the extensor muscle and of the pressure within the pregnant uterus. No major changes in the thoracic kyphosis could be observed, probably because this segment is connected to the chest which stabilizes the thoracic segment, as well as due to intensively working abdominal muscles. The results of the study can be the basis for development of exercise programs for women during pregnancy and after delivery to correct the somatic changes of pregnancy.

Key words:

curvature of the spine, the spine and somatic features in pregnancy