Pregnancy brings a lot physical changes, many of which are visible, but some that aren’t as obvious. These shifts place new stresses on the body as it accommodates the growing fetus. During pregnancy, a woman’s center of gravity shifts forward to the front of her pelvis. As pregnancy continues, the curvature of the low back increases, adjusting for the increased forward weight of the body. Although the body is equipped for this circumstance, the joins of the pelvis and lumbar spine experience increased stress. Studies have found that about half of all pregnant people will develop low back pain.

How Can Chiropractic Help?

Chiropractic treatment can be a great nonpharmacological approach to managing low back pain in pregnancy, and is safe for the pregnant person and baby. Doctors of chiropractic can also offer nutrition, ergonomic, and exercise advice to help patients enjoy a healthy pregnancy. Equilibrium providers have years of experience treating pre- and post-natal patients.

Before and during pregnancy chiropractors can detect imbalances in the pelvis or elsewhere in your body that could contribute to pregnancy discomfort. Following childbirth chiropractors can address any joint issues that arise as a result of labor or from caring for a newborn, or due to the retightening of ligaments as the body begins to return to its pre-pregnancy state.

Evidence suggests a relationship between back pain throughout pregnancy and a longer duration of the labor and delivery process. In early studies, 70% of pregnant patients who received chiropractic care during their pregnancies stated that they found relief from pain, and women who seek chiropractic care throughout gestation have an average of 25% shorter labor time. One case-control study even found a strong relationship between women receiving prenatal manipulative treatment and a reduction of the occurrence preterm delivery, use of forceps, and unplanned cesarean delivery.

Equilibrium providers have many years of experience treating pregnant patients. Dr. Cydney has received specialized training in Webster Technique, which gives special focus to weight-bearing on the pelvis region. We would love to be part of your wellness team during during all four trimesters of your pregnancy!