Seeing a chiropractor for back pain in pregnancy

Back pain in pregnancy is so common that many people feel it is just a normal part of being pregnant. The exact cause of low back pain during pregnancy is unclear, however it is widely thought that it is likely to be caused by postural and biomechanical changes associated with an enlarging uterus which causes an increase in the lumbar spinal curve. Hormone changes in pregnancy also cause a relaxation of the stabilising ligaments, particularly of the pelvis.

During a time of great anticipation and excitement as you prepare for your precious arrival, the last thing you need is nagging or debilitating back pain. As the use of painkilling medication is discouraged during pregnancy, many pregnant women suffering with back pain feel they have very few options available to help reduce their pain. Chiropractic is a safe and medication free means of treating back pain. Several recent studies have found statistically significant reductions in back pain in pregnant patients treated with chiropractic compared to those treated with routine obstetrical care. In a study published last year, the pregnant women who were treated by chiropractors experienced a reduction in their back pain by 30% within one week of treatment being started. This increased to an approximate 50% reduction in pain levels by 1 month after the first treatment. By 3 months after the treatment was started, patients reported a 75% reduction in pain.

I enjoy treating pregnant patients. It is always satisfying to help reduce people's pain without having to resort to the use of medication. It's one of the many things I love about being a chiropractor.