Pregnancy-Related Pain in Rochester
From seeing that positive pregnancy test to feeling those first few kicks and decorating the nursery, finding out you’re expecting is a time like no other. But alongside all that excitement can come some less welcome surprises, like an aching lower back, sore hips, or difficulty finding a comfortable sleeping position.
As your body changes to accommodate your growing baby, new demands on your muscles and joints may cause discomfort. At Thrive Wellness, we help expectant mothers understand what may be contributing to their pain and explore care options that may help.
Why Back and Pelvic Pain Develop
Your body goes through remarkable changes during pregnancy. As your abdomen grows, your center of gravity shifts, changing how you stand, walk, and move. Hormonal changes also affect the ligaments around your pelvis, while your back and abdominal muscles adjust to increasing physical demands.
These changes can place additional strain on muscles and joints, particularly as pregnancy progresses. While some discomfort is common, that doesn’t mean you should simply ignore it.
Where You Might Feel Discomfort
- Lower back pain: Aching or stiffness that may become more noticeable after standing, sitting, or walking for extended periods
- Pelvic girdle pain: Discomfort around the pelvis, hips, or pubic bone, sometimes aggravated by stairs or turning over in bed
- Sciatica-like symptoms: Pain that travels from the lower back or buttock into the leg, which may involve nerve irritation
- Hip discomfort: Soreness associated with changes in posture, movement, and the demands placed on surrounding muscles
- Neck and upper back tension: Muscle tightness that may develop as posture and daily movement habits change
Persistent or worsening pain deserves attention, particularly when it interferes with sleep, mobility, or your usual activities.
Chiropractic Care for Expectant Mothers
Your body’s needs change throughout pregnancy, and your chiropractic care should reflect that. Dr. Levi Curran, DC, begins by reviewing your symptoms, medical history, spinal mobility, and movement patterns to better understand what may be contributing to your discomfort.
When chiropractic care is suitable, recommendations may include modified adjustments, movement-based strategies, and practical guidance for everyday comfort. Care is adapted to your stage of pregnancy and individual circumstances, with referrals to your prenatal healthcare provider when needed.
Finding More Comfort in Everyday Activities
Small changes can sometimes make daily life easier. Taking regular movement breaks, using pillows for additional comfort while sleeping, and choosing suitable exercises may help manage certain pregnancy-related aches. As your body changes, you may need to adjust these habits to stay comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is prenatal chiropractic care an option for me?
Some expectant mothers consider chiropractic care for musculoskeletal concerns such as lower back or pelvic discomfort. Whether it’s suitable depends on your symptoms, health history, and stage of pregnancy. We recommend discussing any additional care with your prenatal healthcare provider.
Why does my lower back hurt more now?
Lower back pain is common during pregnancy because of changes in posture, weight distribution, and the demands placed on muscles and joints. However, persistent or severe pain shouldn’t automatically be dismissed as a normal part of pregnancy. Your prenatal healthcare provider can help determine whether further evaluation is needed.
When should I contact my prenatal healthcare provider?
Contact your prenatal healthcare provider promptly if pain is severe, sudden, worsening, or accompanied by vaginal bleeding, fever, contractions, fluid leakage, weakness, or other concerning symptoms. These may require medical assessment rather than chiropractic care.
You Deserve a More Comfortable Pregnancy
Aching hips, lower back discomfort, or pelvic pain making everyday activities difficult? We’d welcome the chance to hear what’s going on. Contact Thrive Wellness to schedule an evaluation and see how chiropractic care may help you feel more comfortable.
