You Don’t Have to Just Endure Pregnancy-Related Pain
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Pregnancy is one of the most physically demanding experiences a body goes through. The changes happen quickly, they compound on each other, and they place stress on the spine and pelvis in ways that can make an already challenging time significantly more uncomfortable.
Back pain during pregnancy is so common that many women assume it is simply part of the experience — something to be tolerated until the baby arrives. It doesn’t have to be. Chiropractic care is a safe, gentle, and effective option for many of the musculoskeletal complaints that accompany pregnancy, and Dr. John has been helping expectant mothers find relief throughout his career.
Why Pregnancy Affects the Spine
The physical changes of pregnancy create a perfect storm of spinal stress. As the pregnancy progresses:
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The growing baby shifts the center of gravity forward, increasing the curve in the lower back and placing additional load on the lumbar spine and sacroiliac joints
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Hormonal changes — particularly the release of relaxin — loosen the ligaments of the pelvis in preparation for delivery, reducing the stability of joints that were previously well supported
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Postural adaptations develop as the body tries to compensate for the shifting weight distribution, often leading to muscle imbalances and restricted spinal movement
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As the uterus expands, abdominal muscles stretch and weaken, further reducing core support for the spine
The result is that many pregnant women experience back pain, pelvic pain, sciatic symptoms, and general discomfort that can significantly affect their quality of life during what should be a meaningful time.
What Chiropractic Care Can Help With During Pregnancy
Chiropractic adjustments during pregnancy focus on maintaining proper spinal and pelvic alignment as the body changes. The most common pregnancy-related complaints that respond well to chiropractic care include:
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Lower back pain from increased lumbar curve and load
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Sacroiliac joint pain — the deep, often one-sided pelvic pain common during pregnancy
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Sciatic symptoms — shooting or burning pain down the leg originating from the lower spine or piriformis muscle
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Mid-back and upper back tension from postural changes and breast tissue changes
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Neck pain and headaches related to postural shifts
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General spinal stiffness and restricted movement
Is Chiropractic Safe During Pregnancy?
Yes. Chiropractic care during pregnancy is safe when performed by an experienced provider who understands how to adapt technique appropriately for each stage of pregnancy. Dr. John has treated expectant mothers throughout his career and adjusts his approach based on where a patient is in her pregnancy.
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Adjustments during pregnancy are gentle. Positioning is modified to ensure comfort and safety — treatment tables can accommodate a growing belly, and techniques are selected specifically for the pregnant patient. Nothing is forced. Patient comfort and safety are always the priority.
As with any treatment during pregnancy, it is reasonable to mention to your OB or midwife that you are receiving chiropractic care. Most have no concern with it and many actively recommend it for pregnancy-related musculoskeletal complaints.
When During Pregnancy Can You Be Treated?
Chiropractic care can be appropriate at any stage of pregnancy. Many patients begin care in the first or second trimester when back pain first becomes noticeable, and continue through the third trimester as the physical demands on the spine increase. Others come in specifically because symptoms have become more significant as the pregnancy has progressed.
There is no single right time to start. If you are pregnant and dealing with back or pelvic pain, the right time is whenever the pain is affecting your daily life.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
Your first visit begins with a conversation. Dr. John will ask about your pregnancy, your symptoms, and your health history. He will perform a gentle hands-on examination to assess the areas that are causing discomfort. Treatment at the first visit is adapted specifically to your stage of pregnancy and your comfort level.
First visits for new patients typically run 30 to 40 minutes. You will be treated at your first appointment — you will not leave without having received care.
Relief Is Possible — Let’s Talk
If you are pregnant and dealing with back pain, pelvic pain, sciatica, or any of the musculoskeletal discomforts that pregnancy brings, you do not have to wait until after delivery to feel better. Call us and let Dr. John evaluate what is going on. If he can help, he will tell you. If your situation calls for a different approach, he will tell you that too.
New patients are accepted by phone appointment.