Weights and Pregnancy

determined_14

I'm 14 weeks pregnant and I've been progressively lifting (a bit intermittently) for close to a year. Everything that I read about exercise in pregnancy seemed to indicate that if you felt comfortable and capable, you could typically continue (though there are a few contra-indicated exercises, blah blah blah).
But I also have a scoliosis and nagging back pain, and recently started seeing a new chiropractor to help maintain/improve my spinal status through pregnancy.
She recommended I not squat more than 45lbs or deadlift more than-- get this-- 10 or 20lbs! (How does one deadlift 20lbs?!) I have been squatting 90-ish and DL-ing 120-140. (With Stronglifts format).
Anyway, I'm not totally sure if this recommendation is her generic pregnancy advice or if she's more concerned because of my pre-existing issues, so that's something I need to find out more about.
But I've felt good continuing to lift, not like I'm hurting myself at all. Does anyone have any knowledge about weight in pregnancy or weights with a scoliosis?
I know, it isn't medical advice, listen to your doctor, etc. I'm just trying to do a little research and thought I'd poll the knowledgeable group here.
Thanks in advance!

Cherimoose

determined_14 wrote: »

I'm not totally sure if this recommendation is her generic pregnancy advice or if she's more concerned because of my pre-existing issues

Why not ask her the reason? Maybe it's based on her exam of you - which is why other people's situations may not apply to you. Personally i'd ask an MD or DO, but that's just me.

While squatting 45 and DLing 20 won't maintain your current strength, it's enough strength for most people to handle most everyday tasks.

determined_14

I do need to ask her for more info-- it was a lot of information in one visit and I had to come home and process before sorting out what more I need to know. Figured I'd ask here in the meantime.

LKArgh

When it comes to the first part of the question, OP, sorry but I seriously doubt that progressive lifting is safe during pregnancy. Exercise you have already been doing is safe in most cases. Increasing weights, I doubt it is safe. Lifting heavy, as in really pushing yourself, again I seriously doubt it is safe. Talk to your dr. I would be far more concerned about the risk of triggering preterm labour, or an accident happening as your ligaments get loose, than about the scoliosis.
Now, as for the scoliosis itself, a very close friend has scoliosis and uses weights. However, she made her plan with her physical therapist, as some exercises are forbidden. We never work out together, so I do nto know details, but I know it took her some time to find a routine that helps with the pain instead of making things worse. Have you started lifting without talking to a specialist first?

determined_14

I didn't mean to indicate that I'm still trying to increase my weights regularly since pregnancy. I've never lifted anywhere near my one rep max. I'm confident that I'm not endangering my baby. But I don't want to hurt my back... I just wonder if it is necessary to be as extreme as her recommendations. (Also, the "don't deadlift more than 10 or 20lbs"? My toddler already weighs 30, so that's out. )