Conditions We Treat

CHIROPRACTIC PREGNANCY 

Back pain, pelvic pain, hip stiffness and rib soreness are incredibly common during pregnancy, and too many women are told to just push through it. You don't have to. These complaints respond well to gentle, pregnancy-safe chiropractic care.

As your baby grows, your centre of gravity shifts forward, increasing load on the lumbar spine and pelvis. At the same time, the hormone relaxin loosens ligaments to prepare the pelvis for birth. This is necessary, but it can reduce joint stability and lead to pain in the lower back, hips and pubic bone.

Mid-back and rib pain (as the ribcage expands), carpal tunnel in the wrists, sciatic pain, leg cramps and postural headaches are all common too. We see pregnant patients at every stage and understand what's driving each of these complaints.

A systematic review of 50 studies found favourable evidence for several interventions within the chiropractic scope of practice for pregnancy-related low back and pelvic pain, and an international consensus of 78 experts from 7 countries supports spinal manipulation and mobilisation as appropriate interventions. Safety reviews found that adverse events during pregnancy chiropractic care are rare, with most being mild and transient.

The techniques we use on pregnant patients are gentle, low-force and adapted for each trimester. We also provide safe exercise recommendations and postural advice to help you stay comfortable as your body changes.

COMMON PREGNANCY-RELATED COMPLAINTS

  • Low back pain
  • Pelvic pain and pressure
  • Pubic bone (symphysis pubis) pain
  • Mid-back and rib pain
  • Neck pain and headaches
  • Aching legs, buttocks and hips
  • Sciatic pain radiating down the legs
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome and wrist pain
  • Foot or ankle pain and swelling
  • Discomfort with breathing
  • Jaw pain

Chiropractic care during pregnancy goes beyond pain relief. Maintaining good spinal and pelvic function supports better weight distribution, improved posture and greater comfort as your body changes.

After birth, your body goes through another major transition. Post-natal chiropractic care helps address lingering pain, supports recovery and eases the physical demands of caring for a newborn, from feeding postures to carrying your baby.

Expectant mothers visit us from Sandton, Morningside, Hyde Park, Bryanston, Rivonia and across Johannesburg.

You deserve to enjoy your pregnancy as comfortably as possible. Book an appointment at our Sandton practice and let us support you through this special time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Safety reviews found that adverse events during pregnancy chiropractic care are rare, with most being mild and transient. The techniques used are gentle, low-force and adapted for each trimester. An international consensus of 78 experts supports spinal manipulation and mobilisation as appropriate interventions during pregnancy.

You can see a chiropractor at any stage of pregnancy. Many women start in the second trimester when back and pelvic pain typically begins, but some benefit from care earlier, particularly if they had pre-existing spinal issues. Treatment is adapted to suit each stage.

Common complaints include low back pain, pelvic girdle pain, pubic symphysis pain, mid-back and rib soreness, sciatica, headaches, carpal tunnel and hip stiffness. We also provide postural advice and safe exercise recommendations for each trimester.

Yes. Pelvic girdle pain affects many pregnant women as the hormone relaxin loosens ligaments. A systematic review found favourable evidence for several interventions within the chiropractic scope of practice for pregnancy-related pelvic pain. Gentle mobilisation and stabilisation exercises are an effective part of a management plan.

Absolutely. Post-natal chiropractic care helps address lingering pain from pregnancy and delivery, supports recovery and eases the physical demands of caring for a newborn, from feeding postures to carrying your baby.