Should You See a Chiropractor during Pregnancy?

Acute or chronic back pain is uncomfortable, but it can be especially painful during pregnancy. If you’re expecting a little one and the added weight and strain is taking its toll on your spine, it’s time to make an appointment with BackFit Health + Spine. 

What Causes Back Pain during Pregnancy?

There are several natural causes of back pain, as well as daily activities that you do while pregnant, that can be the root cause of your discomfort. 

Natural causes include:

• Weight gain that comes with being pregnant puts more stress on your spine. Pregnancy can cause you to gain a quarter of your body weight.
• Changes in the center of gravity of your body, which can cause imbalances in your muscles and muscle fatigue. 
• Hormonal surges that create laxity in joints and ligaments near the pelvis.

Daily activities than may cause discomfort:

• Walking and running on a regular basis.
• Bending forward or picking up heavy objects.
• Climbing stairs at home or at work.

Types of Pregnancy Back Pain

Back pain during pregnancy is very common, but it can be easily treated with the help of a trained chiropractor. You might find that your pain isn’t severe in the early months of pregnancy, but it can gradually increase in intensity in the later months with the added weight and expansion of your body. Pain in the lower back is referred to as lumbar pain and is a result of inflammation of the sciatic nerve that runs from your hips down to your feet. In some cases, the pain can become so severe that it prevents you from carrying out daily activities. 

Pregnancy back pain also includes pain that starts with the sacroiliac joint that forms the functional unit of the pelvis to allow for alternating movement as you walk. In the later months of pregnancy, your body releases hormones that prepare your pelvis for birth, loosening the strong ligaments that control this joint, thus resulting in acute pelvic pain and discomfort. 

Why See a Chiropractor during Pregnancy?

There are some light exercises and stretches you can do at home, but if your pain is severe or if you’re looking to treat it right away, then a knowledgeable chiropractor can help. Regularly adjustment of your spine during your pregnancy can also help alleviate nausea and any other discomforts your body may feel while under the stress of pregnancy.  

If you’re ready to begin a treatment plan to get you through your pregnancy and help you prepare for birth, then give us a call today at (877)-BACKFIT or (877) 222-5438 to schedule an appointment. Any of our nine Valley locations can help!