Back Pain in Pregnancy
Chiropractic Care For Pregnancy Back Pain
Local Marrickville Chiropractor Rated 5/5
Author: Dr. Kirsten Strudwick (Chiropractor) BSc, M.Chiro
Back pain in pregnancy can make sleep, exercise and regular movement tough. As your baby grows, posture changes can place extra strain on your back.
At Marrickville Chiropractic Care, we support expectant mums with gentle, pregnancy-safe care to help ease discomfort and improve movement.
Our quiet Marrickville clinic is a calm, supportive space at Suite 1/394 Marrickville Rd, Marrickville NSW 2204 (view in Google Maps).
Ready for more comfort? Book your appointment today.
Trusted Family Chiropractic Care
Supporting you through pregnancy with comfort and care
As a chiropractor, I see many pregnant women who are experiencing discomfort and are looking for safe, natural ways to manage it.
Chiropractic care is a gentle, drug-free approach that aims to improve spinal alignment and ease musculoskeletal stress. This is especially beneficial during a period of physical stress, such as back pain in pregnancy.
Why does back pain occur during pregnancy?
Back pain during pregnancy is highly prevalent, especially in the lower back and pelvic region. It may begin as early as the first trimester and often intensifies as pregnancy progresses.
Here’s some more info on why it happens.
1) Postural changes
As your baby grows, your centre of gravity shifts forward. This leads to an exaggerated curve in the lower back (lumbar lordosis) which increases pressure on spinal joints and muscles, often resulting in lower back pain pregnancy symptoms.
2) Hormone effects
During pregnancy, the body produces a hormone that causes ligaments to loosen and joints to stretch in preparation for childbirth.
This hormone is known as ‘relaxin’. While essential for delivery, it also leads to joint instability, particularly in the sacroiliac joints and pubic symphysis.
This may be felt in the lower back, hips, and pelvis.
3) Weight gain
Weight gain during pregnancy is normal and expected.
However, with the additional weight, there is often increased pressure on the spine and lower back. This added strain can contribute to muscular tension and discomfort.
4) Changes in movement patterns
As your body changes, the way you walk, sit, and sleep will change.
These new movement patterns and prolonged sitting or side-lying sleep positions can strain muscles and alter joint function, worsening back pain early pregnancy or later discomfort.
How may chiropractic care help?
Chiropractic care can play a supportive role in managing pregnancy-related back pain. It is a safe and evidence-informed option that focuses on restoring proper spinal and pelvic function and improving mobility.
As a chiropractor, I use hands-on techniques to improve your spinal function, reduce pain, and support overall mobility.
Some of the key benefits include:
- Reduced lower back and pelvic pain through gentle spinal and pelvic adjustments.
- Improved postural awareness to support the weight of your growing baby.
- Better pelvic alignment, which may contribute to a more comfortable pregnancy.
- Improved mobility and flexibility.
All chiropractic techniques used during pregnancy are modified for safety and comfort. Supportive aids like pregnancy pillows and drop-piece tables are also used.
Why Choose Us for Chiropractic Care?
Marrickville Chiropractic Care helps you live pain-free and healthy. You benefit from our expertise, dedication, and family-friendly care. Here are some additional reasons to pick us as your local chiropractors:
- Registered with AHPRA
- Longer consultations
- A multi-modal approach to care
- Rated 5/5.
Back Pain in Pregnancy & Chiropractic Care
Whether you’re preparing for birth or simply seeking to feel more comfortable during pregnancy, I’m here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is chiropractic care safe during pregnancy?
Yes. Chiropractic care is generally considered safe during pregnancy when delivered by a trained and registered chiropractor.
I always modify care to ensure that both you and your baby are comfortable throughout the session.
When should I see a chiropractor for pregnancy-related back pain?
You can see a chiropractor at any stage of pregnancy.
Many women seek care when they start experiencing back discomfort, while others choose to begin treatment earlier as a proactive approach to maintaining spinal health.
Is it normal to have back pain early in pregnancy?
Yes, back pain can begin in the first trimester.
Hormonal changes, such as the release of relaxin, start early and can affect joint stability.
For some women, back pain appears even before physical changes become obvious.
What’s the difference between normal pregnancy back pain and sciatica?
Typical pregnancy back pain is often located in the lower spine or pelvis and may worsen with posture or fatigue.
Sciatica, on the other hand, involves irritation of the sciatic nerve and usually presents as sharp, shooting pain that radiates from the lower back down one leg.
Chiropractic care may help manage both. I can provide a comprehensive assessment to see what’s happening in your case.
Can back pain interfere with sleep during pregnancy?
Yes, it’s very common.
As your pregnancy progresses, sleeping positions become more limited, and extra strain on the lower back or hips can lead to disrupted sleep.
I can offer you advice on sleeping posture and recommend pregnancy supports or pillows to ease pressure points.
Can back pain interfere with sleep during pregnancy?
While less common than lower back pain, upper back pain can also occur. As the breasts enlarge and posture shifts forward, added strain may be placed on the thoracic spine and shoulders.
Gentle spinal mobilisation and postural advice can be beneficial.
Can chiropractic help with pelvic pain?
Yes. Pelvic pain during pregnancy often relates to joint misalignment and soft tissue strain. Chiropractic care aims to restore joint balance and relieve pressure on the surrounding structures, which may ease discomfort.
How often should I come in?
This varies from person to person.
Some women benefit from weekly sessions during times of greater discomfort, while others may find fortnightly or monthly visits sufficient.
Your care plan will be tailored to your stage of pregnancy and response to treatment.
Will chiropractic care help me after pregnancy?
Yes. Many women continue to see a chiropractor postpartum to help their bodies recover from the physical changes of pregnancy and childbirth.
Postnatal chiropractic care can assist with back pain, posture, and overall musculoskeletal health
Back Pain Pregnancy Care Sydney
Whether you’re preparing for birth or simply seeking to feel more comfortable during pregnancy, I’m here to help.
