Have You Tried Chiropractic Care for Pregnancy Back Pain

As a busy mum and chiropractor, I understand the challenges that come with pregnancy. When I was pregnant, I experienced backaches and discomfort. Just like you probably have. 

As your baby grows, your body and posture adapt and change. This may cause tension, back pain, sciatica, and difficulty with movement and posture.

I know that as a chiropractor, there is help available for pregnancy-related back pain. By focusing on spinal alignment, chiropractic adjustments and soft tissue work can help relieve some of these aches and pains. 

I’ve worked with many pregnant women in my clinic. I’ve been able to help them manage a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions that arise during pregnancy. 

So if you’re experiencing pregnancy-related back pain, read on for tips on how chiropractic care may help.

So, why does pregnancy cause back pain?

One of the main reasons for pregnancy-related back pain is the extra weight you’re carrying. As your baby grows, your spine and back take on additional stress, and your body mechanics and posture shift forward. These changes often put pressure on your lower back and the nerves that exit your vertebrae.

Another reason for aches and pains is the change in hormones, particularly relaxin. This hormone is released to help loosen the ligaments in your pelvis in preparation for childbirth. 

However, as relaxin levels increase, it can also lead to joint instability, making you more susceptible to muscle strain and discomfort. Find out more about relaxin here.

Another reason for aches and pains is simple biomechanical changes and how your muscles respond. Some muscles become weaker, while others work harder to compensate for shifts in your posture. This imbalance can contribute to pain, particularly in the lower back and hips.

The good news is that chiropractic care can help support your body through these changes, promoting better alignment and reducing discomfort. Let’s find out how.

How chiropractic care may help

Many women visit their local chiropractic clinic when pregnant.

One of the main areas of chiropractic treatment is maintaining proper spinal alignment. Assisting with this can help reduce stress on your body and relieve discomfort. 

Chiropractic adjustments during pregnancy are often performed using modified and gentle techniques, often combined with soft tissue work. Treatment is always adapted to your unique needs, with the goal of improving mobility, easing tension, and reducing pressure on overworked muscles. Ultimately providing much-needed pain relief.

Managing pelvic alignment is another important factor to consider. When your pelvis is balanced, it provides better support for your baby, reduces pressure on your lower back, and eases strain on surrounding muscles and joints. A misaligned pelvis or uneven hips can increase muscle tension, reduce mobility, and lead to symptoms like sciatica or nerve pain. 

Chiropractors can help maintain or improve pelvic alignment through exercises, stretching, and soft tissue work.

As well, chiropractors may provide help with posture, movement, and exercises that can help support you during pregnancy. 

Simple changes like adjusting the way you sit, stand, or sleep, go a long way in helping with back pain. 

Many women also benefit from gentle stretching and strengthening exercises tailored to pregnancy.

This may help with managing your overall pregnancy experience, as scientific evidence suggests that exercise during pregnancy gives you more energy, fewer mood swings, better sleep and better management of stress.

Here are some of the most common questions I’m asked about pregnancy and back pain.

Can I see a chiropractor during all stages of pregnancy?

Yes, many women receive chiropractic care throughout their pregnancy. From the first trimester to the final weeks before delivery. Of course, treatment may vary depending on your trimester, but help is available at any stage! Before, during, and after. 

Will chiropractic adjustments hurt?

Chiropractic adjustments are gentle and adapted to your needs. Most pregnant patients find them comfortable and relieving.

However no treatment is entirely risk free, so consultation with your chiropractor or health practitioner for advice in your case.

How often should I see a chiropractor during pregnancy?

The frequency of visits depends on symptoms and needs. Some women see regularly visit a chiropractor. Others come as needed.

Can chiropractic care help with pelvic pain?

Yes, chiropractic techniques can help support pelvic alignment, which may reduce discomfort associated with conditions such as pelvic girdle pain.

Will I need imaging, like X-rays?

If further testing is needed and clinically relevant, we may refer you for X-rays to support an accurate diagnosis. We only recommend imaging when it’s necessary and helpful in understanding the nature of your condition. In some cases, other forms of imaging or assessment may be more appropriate, depending on your symptoms and medical history. I can explain the reasoning and discuss any concerns you may have.

What can I do at home to support my back?

I often recommend gentle stretches, prenatal yoga, and using supportive pillows while sleeping to maintain good spinal alignment.

If you’re pregnant and experiencing back pain, chiropractic care may be a beneficial option for you. 
Your comfort and well-being during pregnancy are important.

Key points

• Pregnancy-related back pain is a common issue due to extra weight, changes in hormones, and biomechanical changes in muscles.
• Chiropractic care may help manage these changes, promoting better alignment and reducing discomfort.
• Chiropractic care may be a beneficial option for those experiencing back pain during pregnancy.

Disclaimer: This article is created and published online for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice.

Author: Dr Kirsten Strudwick (Chiropractor) is a Doctor of Chiropractic with 15+ years of experience in Marrickville, Sydney, and runs Marrickville Chiropractic Care. Holding a BSc and M.Chiro from Macquarie University, her practice focuses on holistic, patient-centred care. Kirsten has a clinical interest in a range of areas including women’s health, paediatric care, and pregnancy-related treatments.