Chiropractic Care in Pregnancy

Pregnancy involves a profound physical transformation, frequently accompanied by a range of aches and discomforts. It is during this phase that women seek out alternative therapies to navigate the numerous changes happening within their bodies. Chiropractic care emerges as a preferred option for women, offering a safe, gentle, and drug-free intervention to support these changes during pregnancy. As a Chiropractor I feel privileged to be able to provide care for a growing number of pregnant women during this very special time.

Throughout pregnancy, studies have shown more than 50% of women experience lower back pain(1), with the sacroiliac joints of the pelvis being the most frequently affected (2). Lower back pain and sacroiliac joint (SIJ) sprain during and after pregnancy represent some of the most prevalent conditions encountered by chiropractors. The ligaments in the pelvis and spine become overstretched, resulting in instability, and lack of ability to engage core muscles resulting in significant pain.

Other common aches and pains include;

  • Sciatica
  • Groin Pain
  • Headaches & Neck Pain

A study reported, 75% of pregnant patients experienced relief following chiropractic care (3), whilst others have reported less back pain during labour and delivery. (4) Women who received care during their initial pregnancy reported an average decrease in labour times of 25%. (5)

Chiropractic care during pregnancy is a safe and effective way to reduce unnecessary discomfort and prepare the body for the most precious moment in life for the mother and baby.

References

  1. Fast A. Low Back Pain in Pregnancy. Spine. 1987;12(4):368-371
  2. Berg G. Low back Pain During Pregnancy. Am J Obstet Gyn. 1988;71:71-75
  3.  Shaw G. When to adjust: chiropractic and pregnancy. J Am Chiropr Assoc. 2003;40(11):8-16.
  4.  Diakow PR, Gadsby TA, Gadsby JB, Gleddie JG, Leprich DJ, Scales AM. Back pain during pregnancy and labor. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 1991 Feb;14(2):116-8. PubMed PMID: 1826921. Epub 1991/02/01. eng.
  5. [Borggren CL. Pregnancy and chiropractic: a narrative review of the literature. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine. 2007 6//;6(2):70-4.