More than 50% of pregnant women experience back or pelvic pain, often starting earlier than expected. A study of 1,491 women found that the biggest predictor of pain later in pregnancy was having that pain in the first trimester.
Pelvic cavity pain and uterine contractions were more common in women with prior pregnancies. The same study showed that women with lower self-rated fitness and lower WHO-5 well-being scores were more likely to report ongoing back and pelvic pain.
These pain builds over time and can make each trimester feel harder than it should. Yet many expecting moms are told it’s just something common that they have to deal with.
Pregnancy pain can’t be eliminated but it can be managed with the right support. At our clinic in Wheat Ridge, CO we work with your body to help reduce discomfort, restore movement, and make this chapter a little more manageable.
What Is Pregnancy Pain? A Closer Look
Pregnancy pain often comes from how your body physically changes to support the baby. One key factor is the hormone relaxin, which softens ligaments to help prepare the pelvis for birth. The downside is that looser joints create less stability, especially in the spine and pelvis.
As your posture shifts forward and your belly grows, more pressure builds on areas like the SI joints, lumbar spine, pelvis, and ribs. Muscles tighten to compensate. Joints move differently than they did before, thus resulting in prenatal pain.
Common Causes of Pregnancy Pain
SI Joint Dysfunction
The sacroiliac joints sit where the sacrum meets the iliac bones of the pelvis. As relaxin levels increase, these loosens joints and the supporting ligaments. These cause irritations that lead to sharp or aching pain near the back of the pelvis
Sciatica
As the spine adjusts to your growing belly, the lumbar vertebrae and pelvic position change. This can compress or irritate the sciatic nerve, which runs through the gluteal region and down resulting in burning or tingling pain sensation in your legs.
Pelvic Girdle Pain
The pelvic girdle includes the sacroiliac joints, pubic symphysis, and surrounding connective tissue. When all of these become loose and unstable often from uneven weight bearing. You may feel pain deep in the front, back, or sides of the pelvis.
Round Ligament Pain
The round ligaments stretch as the uterus grows. These ligaments anchor the uterus to the pelvic wall, and when they tighten quickly, they can produce sharp pain near the lower belly or groin. It’s usually brief but uncomfortable.
Lower Back Pain
As the baby grows, the lumbar spine increases its inward curve, a natural change called lumbar lordosis. This shift places more stress on the facet joints and intervertebral discs, to maintain stability, the surrounding muscles and structures work harder than usual. Over time, that added load can lead to soreness, stiffness, or persistent lower back pain.
How We Manage Pregnancy Pain With Chiropractic Care
At this stage of life, comfort matters. So does safety. When I work with pregnant patients, the goal isn’t just to reduce pain, it’s to help your body function better. Here’s how we typically approach things at our Wheat Ridge Clinic:
Chiropractic Adjustments
We use a very gentle form of spinal and pelvic adjustment, often applying the Webster Technique when needed. This method is designed specifically for pregnant women. It helps reduce tension in the pelvis and create just enough space for better alignment.
Soft Tissue Therapy
Your muscles and ligaments often take a lot of strain as your body shifts. We use hands-on soft tissue massages to ease these tension areas, followed by a tool called the Rapid Release™ Pro 3+, which uses vibration therapy to release deeper surface tension. It’s comfortable and safe, and many expecting moms usually feel a noticeable difference right away.
Therapeutic Exercise
Once we’ve improved alignment and mobility, we guide you through simple movements designed to support the changes we’ve made. These exercises focus on breathing, core control, and pelvic stability. They’re easy to do at home and help reduce the chance of pain returning between visits.
FAQs About Pregnancy Pain
Is chiropractic care safe during pregnancy?
Yes. When performed by a licensed chiropractor trained in prenatal care, chiropractic adjustments are safe throughout all stages of pregnancy. We avoid any pressure on the abdomen and use gentle techniques.
Can chiropractic treatment help with sciatica or hip pain during pregnancy?
Yes. Sciatica and hip pain often come from joint misalignment or nerve irritation caused by posture changes. Chiropractic care can relieve pressure, improve joint motion, and reduce pain.
Do I need a referral from my OB?
No. You don’t need a referral to see a chiropractor during pregnancy. However, we’re happy to coordinate care with your OB if needed.
Can chiropractic care improve labor or delivery?
Chiropractic adjustments can help optimize pelvic alignment, which may support better fetal positioning and reduce tension. Some studies suggest it may shorten labor time, though results vary.
Can sciatica develop or worsen during pregnancy?
Yes. As the uterus expands, it can put pressure on the sciatic nerve, leading to radiating pain from the lower back down the leg. This condition is called pregnancy-related sciatica. While uncomfortable, it’s usually temporary and manageable with proper care.
Take the First Step Toward a More Comfortable Pregnancy
Our $97 New Patient Special includes a full evaluation and personalized plan so you know exactly what’s causing your pregnancy pain and what we can do to help manage it safely and effectively.
We’ve helped countless expecting moms across Wheat Ridge and Denver feel more supported, more balanced, and more comfortable during every stage of pregnancy.
Book an Appointment Now or Call: 720-573-4910