Pregnancy is one of the most physically demanding experiences the human body goes through. In the span of nine months, a woman's center of gravity shifts dramatically, her ligaments loosen under the influence of relaxin, her lumbar curve increases, and her pelvis widens in preparation for delivery. These changes are necessary and remarkable — but they also place significant stress on the spine, pelvis, and surrounding soft tissues.

Back pain affects an estimated 50 to 70 percent of pregnant women. Many are told it is simply part of pregnancy and that they should expect to be uncomfortable until delivery. That is not true — and it does not have to be your experience.

Why Pregnancy Causes Back and Pelvic Pain

As the uterus expands and the baby grows, the body's center of gravity shifts forward. To compensate, most women increase the curve in their lower back (lumbar lordosis), which places additional stress on the lumbar facet joints and the muscles of the lower back.

At the same time, the hormone relaxin — which helps prepare the pelvis for delivery by loosening the ligaments — also loosens the ligaments throughout the rest of the spine and pelvis. This increased laxity can lead to joint instability, SI joint dysfunction, and the round ligament pain that many women experience in the second trimester.

As the pregnancy progresses, the expanding uterus can also compress the sciatic nerve, producing the shooting pain, numbness, or tingling down one leg that many pregnant women experience.

Is Chiropractic Care Safe During Pregnancy?

Yes. Chiropractic care is widely recognized as safe during pregnancy, including in the first trimester. The American Pregnancy Association supports chiropractic care as a drug-free option for managing musculoskeletal pain during pregnancy.

At Evergreen Spinal Health Center, we use adjusting techniques specifically adapted for pregnant patients. Treatment tables can be adjusted to accommodate a growing belly, and we use gentle, low-force techniques that are safe and comfortable throughout all three trimesters.

The Webster Technique

One of the most well-known chiropractic techniques for pregnant patients is the Webster Technique — a specific chiropractic analysis and adjustment designed to reduce sacral subluxation and SI joint dysfunction, and to balance the muscles and ligaments of the pelvis.

A balanced pelvis allows the uterus to function with less tension and may create more room for the baby to move into an optimal position for delivery. Many midwives and OBs refer patients for Webster Technique care when a baby is in a breech or transverse position.

Benefits of Prenatal Chiropractic Care

Pain relief without medication: Chiropractic care provides effective relief for back pain, pelvic pain, and sciatica without the use of medications that may not be safe during pregnancy.

Improved pelvic alignment: Proper pelvic alignment reduces stress on the uterine ligaments and may support optimal fetal positioning.

Better sleep: Many pregnant women find that chiropractic care reduces the discomfort that disrupts sleep, particularly in the second and third trimesters.

Shorter labor: Some research suggests that women who receive regular chiropractic care during pregnancy have shorter labor times, though more research is needed to confirm this finding.

Postpartum recovery: The structural changes of pregnancy do not reverse immediately after delivery. Continuing chiropractic care in the postpartum period helps the spine and pelvis return to their pre-pregnancy alignment and addresses the new postural demands of nursing and carrying a newborn.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

Your first appointment will include a thorough health history and a gentle postural and spinal assessment. We will discuss your specific symptoms, how far along you are, and any concerns you or your OB or midwife may have.

Treatment is gentle and adapted to your stage of pregnancy. Most patients find prenatal chiropractic care to be comfortable and relaxing, and many report significant relief after just a few visits.

If you are pregnant and dealing with back pain, pelvic pain, or sciatica, you do not have to just endure it. Call Evergreen Spinal Health Center at (253) 683-4277 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Tim Joy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Prenatal Chiropractic Care

Is it safe to get a chiropractic adjustment in the first trimester?

Yes. Chiropractic care is safe throughout pregnancy, including the first trimester. We use gentle, low-force techniques and positioning that is comfortable and safe at every stage. If you have a high-risk pregnancy or specific concerns, we are happy to coordinate with your OB or midwife before beginning care.

Can chiropractic care help a breech baby turn?

The Webster Technique is a chiropractic approach that balances the pelvis and reduces tension in the uterine ligaments, which may allow a baby in a breech or transverse position to move into a head-down position. It does not directly turn the baby. Many providers refer patients for Webster Technique care when a baby is not in an optimal position, and the research on its effectiveness is promising, though more studies are needed.

How often should I see a chiropractor during pregnancy?

This depends on your symptoms and how your body responds to care. Many patients benefit from weekly visits during the second and third trimesters, tapering to every two to four weeks as symptoms improve. We will develop a care plan based on your specific needs and adjust it as your pregnancy progresses.