Managing Back Pain in Pregnancy with a Chiropractor

One of the most common physical complaints during pregnancy is back pain. Approximately 50% to 80% of pregnant women report experiencing low back pain during their pregnancy [1].

At KOEO, we understand the unique demands pregnancy places on the body, and our chiropractic care is tailored to provide relief and support.

 

1. Relieving Low Back Pain: Research consistently shows that chiropractic care is effective in relieving low back pain during pregnancy. The body undergoes significant changes, and misalignments in the spine can contribute to discomfort. Chiropractors are trained to assess and adjust the spine, providing relief. A study looking at the effectiveness of Chiropractic for low back pain in pregnancy found that 52% of 115 recruited patients ‘improved’ at 1 week, 70% at 1 month and 85% at 3 months [2].


2. Addressing Thoracic Pain: In addition to low back pain, we often see clients experiencing thoracic or mid-back pain, especially in the later stages of pregnancy or postpartum. Changes in the body's centre of gravity, expansion of the ribcage, and breast enlargement contribute to tension and pain in the mid-back. Hours spent feeding a newborn, whether breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, also contribute to mid-back pain.


3. Dealing with Pubic Symphysis Issues (Pelvic Girdle Pain): Many times, low back pain is interconnected with issues in the pubic symphysis, the small joint at the front of the pelvis, often referred to as the 'pubic bone.' Chiropractors are trained to check and adjust the entire pelvis and spine, including the sacrum, coccyx, and pubic symphysis. Ligaments and muscles supporting these structures are also assessed. Chiropractic care in these areas can significantly reduce both low back pain and Pubic Symphysis pain, also known as Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP).


4. Providing Supportive Measures: Chiropractors may recommend the use of a supportive elasticated belt or exercises to help stabilise the pelvis, particularly in cases of Pubic Symphysis pain. At KOEO, we provide these belts to our clients for use during pregnancy, offering additional support and comfort.


5. Preventive Care for a Smooth Journey: Addressing low back pain before getting pregnant or in the early stages of pregnancy can have significant benefits. Clients who invest in chiropractic care before conception often experience a smoother pregnancy physically. Proactively managing spinal health can contribute to better alignment, reduced tension, and improved overall comfort during pregnancy.

While it's never too late to seek chiropractic care, starting early allows for a more comprehensive and preventive approach, positively impacting the entire pregnancy journey and birth experience. At KOEO, we believe in the power of proactive care to enhance the well-being of both the mother and the growing baby.


Our chiropractic care is designed to enhance the well-being of expectant mothers, providing relief, support, and tools to manage and prevent discomfort throughout their pregnancy journey.


[1] Sadr, S., Pourkiani-Allah-Abad, N. & Stuber, K.J. The treatment experience of patients with low back pain during pregnancy and their chiropractors: a qualitative study. Chiropr Man Therap 20, 32 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1186/2045-709X-20-32

[2] Peterson CK, Mühlemann D, Humphreys BK. Outcomes of pregnant patients with low back pain undergoing chiropractic treatment: a prospective cohort study with short term, medium term and 1 year follow-up. Chiropr Man Therap. 2014 Apr 1;22(1):15. doi: 10.1186/2045-709X-22-15. PMID: 24690125; PMCID: PMC3994225.

 

LEARN MORE ON PRENATAL CHIROPRACTIC CARE

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What to Expect on Your First Visit to a Prenatal Chiropractor at KOEO

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The Role of a Prenatal Chiropractor in Pregnancy