Chiropractic Treatment during Pregnancy

Chiropractic Care during Pregnancy and Pregnancy Pain

Introduction

Pregnancy is a beautiful and transformative time, but it often comes with physical discomfort and pain. From lower back aches to pelvic pressure and sciatica, many expectant mothers experience symptoms that can interfere with daily life and rest. Fortunately, chiropractic care offers a gentle, safe, and effective way to ease pregnancy-related pain and promote overall well-being—without the use of drugs or invasive procedures. Here at Move Free Chiropractic, we are trained in the McTimoney method of Chiropractic (a much gentler form of Chiropractic treatment) that we believe is more appropriate to treatment of Pregnancy Pain.

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Common Pregnancy-Related Pains Chiropractors Help With

• Lower back pain: The added weight and shift in posture place strain on the lumbar spine.

• Pelvic and hip pain: Changes in the pelvis to prepare for childbirth can cause discomfort or instability.

• Sciatica: Pressure on the sciatic nerve leads to sharp or shooting pain down the legs.

• Round ligament pain: Stretching ligaments in the abdomen cause sharp pelvic or groin pain.

• Neck and shoulder tension: Postural changes and fatigue often result in muscle tightness.

• Wrist and hand discomfort: Fluid retention can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms.

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Why Pregnancy Pain Occurs

Pregnancy causes dramatic changes in the body:

• Hormonal shifts release relaxin, softening ligaments to prepare for birth but increasing joint instability.

• Weight gain and centre of gravity changes increase stress on the spine and pelvis.

• Postural adaptations such as a forward-tilted pelvis and exaggerated lumbar curve lead to muscle strain.

• Pressure from the growing uterus can irritate nerves, such as the sciatic nerve.

These factors create imbalances and misalignments in the spine and pelvis, often leading to pain and limited mobility.

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How Chiropractic Care Helps Pregnancy Pain

Chiropractic care focuses on restoring balance and alignment in the spine and pelvis to relieve nerve irritation, improve joint stability, and reduce muscle tension. Chiropractors trained in the McTimoney Chiropractic method use techniques adapted for safety and comfort throughout pregnancy.

  1. Gentle Spinal and Pelvic Adjustments

Chiropractors use gentle, low-force techniques designed for pregnant women to realign the pelvis and spine, helping relieve pressure on nerves and improve posture.

  2. Pelvic Balance and Symphysis Pubis Support

Careful assessment and correction of pelvic alignment can reduce pelvic girdle pain and help prepare the body for labour by maintaining optimal pelvic function.

  3. Soft Tissue Therapy

Massage, myofascial release, and stretching reduce muscle tension in the back, hips, and shoulders, promoting comfort and relaxation.

  4. Posture and Movement Guidance

Chiropractors educate expectant mums on proper posture, safe exercise, and ergonomics to minimize strain and promote healthy biomechanics during pregnancy.

  5. Supportive Exercises and Stretches

Customized exercise programs help strengthen core and pelvic muscles, enhancing stability and reducing discomfort.

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