Dr. Kevin Schreifels, our Minneapolis chiropractor and a father of three, has training in adjusting pregnant women — and plenty of hands-on experience adjusting his own wife through three pregnancies.
During pregnancy, a woman’s center of gravity shifts forward toward the front of her pelvis. This added weight in front causes stress on the joints of the pelvis and low back. As the baby grows, the curvature of the lower back increases, placing extra stress on the facet joints at the back of the spine. Any pre-existing spinal issues tend to be exacerbated as the spine and pelvis become overtaxed, often leading to pain and difficulty with normal daily activities.
How Common Is Back Pain During Pregnancy?
Studies have found that about half of all expectant mothers develop lower back pain at some point during pregnancy — especially during the third trimester, when the baby gains the most weight. Chiropractic care throughout pregnancy can relieve and even help prevent this pain and discomfort, and creates conditions for an easier, safer delivery.
Why Chiropractic Care Helps During Pregnancy
Chiropractic adjustment is a safe, effective way to help the spine and pelvis cope with the rapid increase in physical stress by restoring balance. Most patients find that chiropractic care helps them avoid pain medication during pregnancy, and studies have shown that chiropractic adjustments can help reduce time in labor. We can provide adjustments and massage, as well as nutritional, ergonomic, and exercise advice throughout your pregnancy.
What to Expect During a Pregnancy Adjustment
Regular adjustments during pregnancy help maintain a healthy skeletal structure and nervous system function through pregnancy and childbirth. Lyn Lake Chiropractic has a drop-down table that allows pregnant patients to lie comfortably on their stomach for a massage from one of our Certified Massage Therapists, followed by a very controlled, light adjustment from our Minneapolis chiropractors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is chiropractic care safe during pregnancy?
Yes. Our providers are trained specifically in prenatal adjustment techniques, and we use equipment — like a drop-down table — designed for pregnant patients’ comfort and safety.
How common is back pain during pregnancy?
About half of all expectant mothers experience lower back pain at some point, most often during the third trimester as the baby’s weight increases.
Can chiropractic care help with labor?
Some studies suggest chiropractic adjustments during pregnancy may help reduce time in labor, in addition to relieving pregnancy-related back and pelvic pain.
What does a pregnancy chiropractic visit include?
A typical visit can include massage on a specially designed drop-down table followed by a controlled, light adjustment, along with nutritional, ergonomic, and exercise guidance as needed.
When during pregnancy should I start chiropractic care?
Care can begin at any point in pregnancy; many patients start as soon as they notice discomfort, or proactively as their pregnancy progresses toward the third trimester.