According to Dr Bratati Bhattacharya, an obstetrics and gynaecology consultant at Manipal Hospital in Kolkata, this exercise is considered “safe and can be undertaken at a pace comfortable for you.”
Expectant mothers prepare for childbirth in various ways, and in addition to proper nutrition, incorporating physical activities can significantly aid in labor preparation. One such preparatory exercise gaining attention is curb walking, which not only contributes to a smoother labor experience but also facilitates better post-delivery recovery.
Curb walking, as suggested by a chiropractic page called Momma’s Chiro, entails walking along the edge of a curb or sidewalk. The technique involves walking with one foot up on the curb and the other foot off the curb, and this motion is repeated with the other leg.
Experts endorse this labor-inducing birthing technique, emphasizing its simplicity and potential benefits for expectant mothers. Curb walking can provide relief from discomfort, improve posture, and enhance blood circulation.
Dr. Bratati Bhattacharya, a consultant obstetrician and gynecologist at Manipal Hospital in Kolkata, explains, “Curb walking is an excellent way to alleviate common pregnancy discomforts. As the baby grows, it can exert pressure on the pelvic area, leading to backaches and pelvic pain. Curb walking helps by gently rocking the pelvis, reducing this pressure and providing relief.”
Dr. Prasannalatha, a senior gynecologist and obstetrician at Kamineni Hospitals in L.B Nagar, Hyderabad, agrees, emphasizing that gentle physical activity can promote overall fitness and alleviate common discomforts. Some believe that the swaying motion of curb walking might encourage the baby to move deeper into the pelvis, offering relief from pregnancy discomforts and promoting relaxation and stress reduction.
Moreover, curb walking contributes to maintaining proper posture during pregnancy. Dr. Bhattacharya notes, “As your body undergoes changes, it’s easy to develop poor posture or slouch, which can lead to back problems. Walking on the curb encourages you to maintain an upright posture, helping prevent posture-related issues.”
Curb walking also supports essential blood circulation during pregnancy. Dr. Bhattacharya adds, “It helps reduce the risk of swollen ankles and feet, which are common in expectant mothers. Improved circulation can also decrease the likelihood of developing varicose veins.”
To perform curb walking correctly, Dr. Bhattacharya advises that the exercise is “safe and can be done at your own pace.” She suggests starting with a few minutes of curb walking and gradually increasing the duration as your body permits. However, it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider before initiating any new exercise routine during pregnancy.
Dr. Shalini Vijay, a senior consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospitals in Lullanagar, Pune, offers some important precautions for those considering curb walking during pregnancy:
1. Consultation is Key: Always seek guidance from your healthcare provider before initiating any new exercise regimen during pregnancy. This step ensures that the exercise is safe and suitable for your specific situation.
2. Choose a Safe Surface: Opt for a flat and secure surface for curb walking to minimize the risk of falling or tripping. Safety should be a top priority.
3. Listen to Your Body: If you encounter any pain, discomfort, dizziness, or unusual symptoms while curb walking, immediately cease the activity and consult your healthcare provider.
Dr. Shalini emphasizes that it’s vital to recognize the uniqueness of every pregnancy, and what works well for one expectant mother may not be suitable for another. Therefore, discussing any exercise plan, including curb walking, with your healthcare provider is crucial to ensure its appropriateness for your individual circumstances.
