Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy

The Physical Changes of Pregnancy

During pregnancy, your body undergoes remarkable changes to accommodate your growing baby. Your centre of gravity shifts forward, your posture changes, and hormonal changes soften ligaments and increase spinal mobility — sometimes excessively. Your expanding abdomen places new loads on your lumbar spine and pelvis, whilst your growing breasts can contribute to upper back strain and postural changes.

These changes are normal and necessary, but they can result in musculoskeletal discomfort. By the third trimester, many pregnant women experience pain or dysfunction that interferes with their ability to work, move comfortably, or sleep well.

The good news is that gentle chiropractic assessment and care, combined with appropriate exercise and postural awareness, can help manage these changes and keep you comfortable throughout pregnancy.

Common Pregnancy-Related Musculoskeletal Presentations

Dr David Chapman (Chiropractor) regularly assesses and helps manage the following pregnancy-related presentations:

Lower Back Pain

The most common pregnancy-related musculoskeletal complaint. The lumbar spine bears the additional weight of the pregnancy, and postural changes place stress on the lower back. Pain may be worse toward the end of the day or after periods of standing or walking.

Sacroiliac Joint Pain and Pelvic Girdle Pain

The sacroiliac joints at the base of the spine, and the pubic symphysis at the front of the pelvis, can become unstable or painful during pregnancy due to hormonal softening of ligaments and changes in pelvic alignment. Pain may occur in the lower back, buttocks, groin, or sides of the pelvis.

Hip Discomfort

Hip pain, particularly on the outside of the hip (iliotibial band syndrome), is common during pregnancy. This can be exacerbated by postural changes and muscle imbalances.

Round Ligament Pain

The round ligaments support the uterus and stretch during pregnancy. Sudden movements or position changes can cause sharp pain, typically in the lower abdomen or groin area. This is generally self-limiting and benign.

Upper Back and Shoulder Pain

As breasts enlarge and posture changes, the upper back and shoulders may become strained and painful. Forward posture combined with the weight of enlarged breasts can overload the thoracic spine and shoulder girdle.

Postural Changes and Rib Pain

As pregnancy progresses, the rib cage expands and postural changes occur. Some women experience rib pain from this expansion.

Carpal Tunnel Symptoms

Some pregnant women experience tingling and numbness in their hands due to fluid retention and swelling, which can compress the median nerve. This typically resolves after pregnancy but can be managed to improve comfort.

Gentle Techniques for Pregnancy

Dr David Chapman (Chiropractor) uses techniques specifically suited to pregnancy. These gentle approaches avoid high-force adjusting and are tailored to your changing body:

Sacro Occipital Technique (SOT)

SOT is particularly well suited to pregnancy. It uses gentle pelvic blocking and positioning to address sacroiliac joint and pelvic dysfunction without high-velocity thrusting. The technique is excellent for managing pelvic girdle pain and preparing the pelvis for labour.

Activator Method

This low-force, instrument-assisted technique provides precise, gentle adjustments without the need for forceful manipulation. It is ideal during pregnancy when your ligaments are more lax and your spine may be more mobile than usual.

Gentle Mobilisation and Soft Tissue Techniques

Dr David Chapman (Chiropractor) uses gentle joint mobilisation and soft tissue work to address muscle tension and improve function. Special attention is given to muscles supporting the pelvis and lower back.

To learn more about our techniques, visit our Techniques page.

Assessment Before Care

Before commencing chiropractic care during pregnancy, Dr David Chapman (Chiropractor) will conduct a thorough history and assessment. You will be asked about:

• Your stage of pregnancy
• Any complications or concerns with your pregnancy
• The nature and location of your pain
• What makes your symptoms better or worse
• Your prenatal care and whether your GP or midwife is aware you are seeking chiropractic care

The physical examination is modified to accommodate your pregnancy. Special care is taken to position you comfortably, and examination techniques are gentle and pregnancy-appropriate.

If Dr David Chapman (Chiropractor) identifies any concerns that require medical attention, you will be advised and appropriate referral to your GP or midwife will be made.

Posture, Exercise and Self-Care During Pregnancy

Chiropractic care is most effective when combined with good postural habits, appropriate exercise, and self-care strategies. Dr David Chapman (Chiropractor) may discuss:

• Postural awareness. As your body changes, maintaining good posture becomes even more important. You will learn how to stand, sit, and move to minimise stress on your spine.
• Appropriate exercise. Gentle exercise, such as walking and pregnancy-specific exercises, helps maintain muscle strength and flexibility during pregnancy.
• Sleep positioning. Sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees reduces stress on your lower back and pelvis.
• Pelvic floor awareness. Understanding and gently engaging your pelvic floor muscles supports spinal stability during pregnancy and prepares you for labour.
• Practical tips for daily activities. How to sit, bend, and move to protect your spine as your body changes.

Chiropractic Care and Labour Preparation

Some pregnant women seek chiropractic care in the final weeks of pregnancy as a way to prepare their pelvis and spine for labour. Gentle pelvic adjustments and SOT may help optimise pelvic alignment and flexibility, potentially supporting a more comfortable labour. Dr David Chapman (Chiropractor) can discuss this with you in the context of your overall prenatal care.

Postnatal Considerations

Chiropractic care can continue after your baby is born. Many women experience postpartum lower back pain, particularly if they experienced pain during pregnancy. Once your body has recovered from labour and birth, gentle chiropractic care can address postpartum musculoskeletal issues. Discuss appropriate timing with Dr David Chapman (Chiropractor) and your GP.

Start Your Pregnancy Assessment Today

If you are pregnant and experiencing musculoskeletal discomfort, or if you would like to discuss whether chiropractic care may help during your pregnancy, contact Centrepoint Chiropractic Clinic. Dr David Chapman (Chiropractor) is experienced in caring for pregnant patients and will work with your healthcare team to ensure the best outcomes for you and your baby.

To book your appointment, call Judy on 07 5495 1763. Consultations are available Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm. Please mention that you are pregnant when booking.