Conditions We Treat

CHIROPRACTIC PREGNANCY 

Back pain, pelvic pain, hip stiffness and rib soreness are incredibly common during pregnancy, and too many women are told to just push through it. You don't have to. Most of these complaints respond well to gentle, pregnancy-safe chiropractic care.

At least half of all pregnant women experience back pain. As your baby grows, your centre of gravity shifts forward, increasing load on the lumbar spine and pelvis. At the same time, the hormone relaxin loosens ligaments to prepare the pelvis for birth. This is necessary, but it can reduce joint stability and contribute to pain in the lower back, hips and pubic bone.

Mid-back and rib pain (as the ribcage expands), carpal tunnel in the wrists, sciatic pain, leg cramps and postural headaches are all common too. We see pregnant patients at every stage and understand what's driving each of these complaints.

A systematic review of 50 studies found favourable evidence that chiropractic care improves pregnancy-related low back and pelvic pain, and an international consensus of 78 experts from 7 countries supports spinal manipulation and mobilisation as preferred interventions. Safety reviews confirm that adverse events during pregnancy are rare, mild and transient.

The techniques we use on pregnant patients are gentle, low-force and adapted for each trimester. We also provide safe exercise recommendations and postural advice to help you stay comfortable as your body changes.

COMMON PREGNANCY-RELATED COMPLAINTS

  • Low back pain
  • Pelvic pain and pressure
  • Pubic bone (symphysis pubis) pain
  • Mid-back and rib pain
  • Neck pain and headaches
  • Aching legs, buttocks and hips
  • Sciatic pain radiating down the legs
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome and wrist pain
  • Foot or ankle pain and swelling
  • Discomfort with breathing
  • Jaw pain

Chiropractic care during pregnancy goes beyond pain relief. Maintaining proper spinal and pelvic alignment supports better weight distribution, improved posture and more room for your baby to move and grow. It can also help prepare your body for labour and delivery.

After birth, your body goes through another major transition. Post-natal chiropractic care helps address lingering pain, supports recovery and eases the physical demands of caring for a newborn, from feeding postures to carrying your baby.

You deserve to enjoy your pregnancy as comfortably as possible. Book an appointment at our Sandton practice and let us support you through this special time.

References

  1. Weis CA, et al. Chiropractic care for pregnancy-related low back and pelvic girdle pain: a systematic review. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. 2020;43(7):714-731.
  2. Weis CA, et al. Best-practice recommendations for chiropractic care for pregnant and postpartum patients: results of a consensus process. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. 2022;45(7):469-489.