Back Pain During Pregnancy — What May Help

Back pain and pelvic girdle pain are among the most commonly reported musculoskeletal complaints during pregnancy. Research suggests that around 50–70% of pregnant people experience low back pain at some point during their pregnancy, and for some it can significantly affect daily activities, sleep, and quality of life (Wu et al., Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand, 2004).

If you are dealing with this, you are not alone — and there are options for managing the discomfort that do not involve medication.

Why back and pelvic pain are common during pregnancy

The musculoskeletal changes that occur during pregnancy are significant. As the baby grows:

• The centre of gravity shifts forward, increasing the load on the lumbar spine
• Hormonal changes (particularly relaxin) increase ligament laxity, which can reduce joint stability
• The pelvis adapts to accommodate the growing uterus, which can place stress on the sacroiliac joints
• Postural compensation patterns develop as the body adapts to a changing shape

These are normal physiological changes, but they can produce real discomfort — particularly in the lower back, pelvis, and hips.

What the research says about manual therapy during pregnancy

The evidence base for manual therapy during pregnancy is more limited than for general back pain, and the studies that do exist tend to be smaller. That said, several studies have found promising results:

• A 2014 randomised controlled trial (George et al., JMPT) found that participants receiving chiropractic care reported improvement in pain intensity and disability scores during pregnancy, though the authors noted the need for larger studies.
• A 2013 systematic review (Liddle & Pennick, Cochrane) found that manual therapy, exercise, and education may reduce low back and pelvic pain during pregnancy, though the quality of evidence was rated as low to moderate.

The honest summary is: there is evidence suggesting manual therapy may help with pregnancy-related back and pelvic pain, but the research is not yet as strong as it is for general low back pain. More high-quality trials are needed.

What chiropractic care during pregnancy looks like

Chiropractic treatment during pregnancy is adapted to be safe and comfortable at each stage. This typically means:

• Modified positioning — side-lying or supported prone positions that avoid pressure on the abdomen
• Lower-force techniques — mobilisation and soft tissue work rather than high-velocity adjustments where appropriate
• Focus on the pelvis, sacroiliac joints, and lumbar spine — the areas most commonly affected
• Exercise and movement advice tailored to each trimester

At Evolve Chiropractic, treatment is always adapted to what feels comfortable for you on the day. Nothing is forced, and you can stop or modify at any point.

Self-management alongside care

Research consistently supports the combination of hands-on care with active self-management. For pregnancy-related back pain, this might include:

• Gentle movement — walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are commonly recommended and generally well-tolerated
• Pelvic floor exercises — your midwife or physiotherapist can guide you on these
• Sleep positioning — a pillow between the knees while side-lying can reduce pelvic strain
• Avoiding prolonged standing or sitting — regular changes of position help manage load on the spine

These are practical strategies you can use alongside any professional care — and they cost nothing.

Important: what this is and is not about

This article is specifically about musculoskeletal pain during pregnancy — back pain, pelvic girdle pain, and related discomfort. Chiropractic care during pregnancy is directed at these musculoskeletal complaints.

Chiropractic care does not treat pregnancy complications, does not influence labour outcomes, and is not a substitute for obstetric or midwifery care. Your GP, obstetrician, or midwife should remain your primary point of contact throughout your pregnancy.

If you are experiencing any pregnancy-related symptoms that concern you — particularly pelvic pain with bleeding, severe headaches, or sudden swelling — please contact your maternity care provider or present to your nearest emergency department.

Working with your maternity team

If you are seeing a chiropractor during pregnancy, it works best when your care is coordinated. I am happy to communicate with your GP, midwife, or obstetrician about your musculoskeletal care if that would be helpful. Good outcomes come from everyone working from the same page.