Pregnancy changes the way your body carries weight, moves, and balances — often within just a few months. As your belly grows, your center of gravity shifts, your posture adapts, and hormones loosen the ligaments around your joints to prepare for delivery. All of that can add up to new aches, especially in the low back, hips, and pelvis. Many expecting moms find that chiropractic care, adapted for pregnancy, offers some relief.
Why Pregnancy Puts Extra Strain on Your Spine
As your baby grows, your lower back naturally curves more to help balance the added weight in front. At the same time, the hormone relaxin loosens the ligaments that normally stabilize your pelvis and spine, which can lead to more movement — and sometimes more discomfort — in those joints. The combination of postural changes and looser ligaments is a big part of why back and hip pain are so common during pregnancy.
Common Complaints Pregnant Patients Bring Up
- Low back pain
- Sciatica-like pain radiating into the hip or leg
- Pelvic and hip joint discomfort
- Upper back and shoulder tension from postural changes
What to Expect at a Prenatal Visit
A chiropractic evaluation during pregnancy starts the same way any evaluation does — understanding your symptoms and how your spine and pelvis are moving. Techniques are adapted to be comfortable and appropriate for each stage of pregnancy, with positioning that avoids unnecessary pressure on the abdomen. As always, Dr. Fernandez will explain what he’s finding and what to expect before any hands-on care begins.
When to Check With Your OB or Midwife First
If you’re managing a high-risk pregnancy or have specific complications, check with your OB or midwife before starting chiropractic care, and keep them in the loop about any new provider you’re seeing. Chiropractic care is meant to work alongside your prenatal care team, not replace it.
A Few Quick Questions
Is chiropractic care safe during pregnancy? For most uncomplicated pregnancies, chiropractic care adapted for pregnancy is considered a reasonable option, but it’s always worth confirming with your OB or midwife, especially if you have any pregnancy complications.
What trimester can I start? There’s no single right time — some patients come in during the first trimester, others once discomfort shows up later on. An evaluation will help determine what makes sense for you.
Will adjustments help turn my baby or induce labor? Chiropractic care focuses on supporting healthy movement in your spine and pelvis, not on inducing labor or guaranteeing a particular fetal position. Talk to your OB or midwife about any concerns related to your baby’s position or your due date.
Dealing with back or hip pain during pregnancy? Call (818) 848-2225 to schedule a visit, or book online — Dr. Fernandez will let you know if chiropractic care is a good fit for you.