Pregnancy is a transformative journey that brings incredible changes to the body. As the baby grows, the body adapts to create space within the uterus and abdomen, leading to significant musculoskeletal shifts.
By the third trimester, the body must also prepare for childbirth, requiring flexibility and expansion in the pelvis and surrounding structures.
A key hormone responsible for these changes is relaxin. This hormone helps loosen ligaments and joints to accommodate childbirth, but it also comes with challenges, including joint laxity, instability, and discomfort.
Common Pregnancy-Related Pain and Discomfort
Throughout pregnancy, many women experience discomfort due to increased stress on various ligaments, joints, and muscles. Some of the most commonly affected areas include:
- Round ligament pain – sharp or pulling pain in the lower abdomen
- Hip flexor pain – discomfort in the front of the hips
- Sacroiliac (SI) joint pain – pain in the lower back and pelvis
- Iliolumbar ligament pain – discomfort in the lower back and hips
- Lower back pain – common due to weight distribution changes
- Sciatica – sharp or burning pain down the leg due to nerve compression
- Lower rib and upper back pain – due to postural changes and rib expansion
- Carpal tunnel syndrome – numbness and tingling in the hands due to fluid retention and nerve compression
Many of these conditions can also refer pain to other areas, such as the hips, legs, or upper back, making daily activities more challenging.
How Chiropractic Care Supports Pregnancy
Chiropractic care is a safe and effective treatment option for managing pregnancy-related pain and discomfort. Through gentle, tailored techniques, chiropractic adjustments can help relieve tension, improve mobility, and support overall comfort. Treatment methods may include:
- Soft tissue therapy – targeted muscle release to reduce tension
- Joint mobilisation and gentle adjustments – to improve spinal and pelvic alignment
- Pelvic floor and core rehabilitation – strengthening key muscle groups for better stability
- Pregnancy support pillows – ensuring safe and comfortable positioning during treatment
- Sports taping techniques – providing additional support for the pelvis and round ligaments
Each treatment is customised based on the individual’s needs, trimester, and medical history. Chiropractic care is generally safe throughout pregnancy, including right up to birth, with techniques adjusted to accommodate the growing baby and mother’s comfort.
Postnatal Chiropractic Care: Supporting Recovery After Birth
After childbirth, the body undergoes another significant transformation as it heals and recovers. Chiropractic care can be highly beneficial in the postnatal period, aiding in lumbo-pelvic recovery and helping to restore core strength. Some key benefits of postnatal chiropractic care include:
- Realigning the spine and pelvis after labour
- Reducing postnatal lower back and pelvic pain
- Supporting pelvic floor recovery
- Helping restore core strength to enhance stability and prevent future discomfort
By addressing musculoskeletal imbalances early on, new mothers can enjoy their time with their baby more comfortably and pain-free.
Pre- and postnatal chiropractic care is a safe, effective, and holistic approach to managing pregnancy-related discomfort and supporting postnatal recovery. By addressing musculoskeletal changes, improving mobility, and strengthening key muscle groups, chiropractic care can enhance overall well-being throughout this transformative period.
If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort during or after pregnancy, consulting a qualified chiropractor can help you navigate this journey with greater ease and confidence.
