Pregnancy-Related Low Back Pain Treatment in Houston, TX
More than 50% of women experience back pain during pregnancy — and for many, it significantly impacts daily function and quality of life. At MVMT Chiropractic, we provide safe, evidence-based chiropractic care specifically for pregnant women in , helping you manage pain, stay active, and have the healthiest pregnancy possible. Call (832) 391-8077 to schedule your prenatal chiropractic consultation today.
Why Back Pain Is So Common During Pregnancy
Pregnancy is one of the most physically transformative experiences a woman’s body undergoes, and the musculoskeletal system bears much of the burden. As the baby grows, the center of gravity shifts forward, the lumbar spine must sway to compensate, and increasing demands are placed on the muscles, ligaments, and discs of the low back and pelvis. The physical stressors of pregnancy go far beyond weight gain alone:
- Hormonal ligament laxity: The hormone relaxin, which increases during pregnancy to allow the pelvis to expand for delivery, also reduces stability in the joints of the low back and pelvis — creating a situation where normal forces become more painful and injurious.
- Postural shifts: As the belly grows, the lumbar curve increases and the pelvis tilts forward, placing chronic stress on the lumbar facets, sacroiliac joints, and supporting musculature.
- Gait changes: Altered walking mechanics increase stress on the low back, hips, and pelvis throughout pregnancy.
- Reduced activity: Exercise tends to decrease during pregnancy, which weakens the core and pelvic muscles that support the spine.
More than a third of pregnant women rate their back pain as severe, and pregnancy-related low back pain is a leading cause of sick leave and missed work. It has also been identified as a factor in women choosing to avoid future pregnancies. The good news: it is very effectively treated with the conservative care we provide at MVMT Chiropractic.
Common Symptoms During Pregnancy
Pregnancy-related musculoskeletal pain most commonly presents as:
- Low back pain, ranging from mild aching to sharp, stabbing pain with movement
- Buttock and hip pain
- Sciatica — pain, numbness, or tingling that radiates from the low back into the leg
- Mid back and upper back pain
- Pain around the shoulder blades (from postural changes and increased breast weight)
- Pelvic girdle pain, particularly around the sacroiliac joints and pubic symphysis
Who Is at Risk for Pregnancy-Related Low Back Pain?
Both extremes of activity level increase risk. Sedentary lifestyles reduce core and pelvic strength, while physically demanding jobs place excessive mechanical load on an already-stressed spine. Even among athletes who maintain exercise during pregnancy, low back pain develops in approximately 44% of cases. Additional risk factors include a prior history of low back pain (which doubles the risk), increased pre-pregnancy weight, pelvic girdle pain history, and depression during pregnancy.
How We Treat Pregnancy-Related Low Back Pain
At MVMT Chiropractic, our treatment goal is to restore normal joint mobility, reduce muscle tension, and provide the pelvic and spinal stability needed to support a comfortable pregnancy. Research shows that nearly 75% of pregnant women undergoing chiropractic manipulation report significant pain reduction and clinically meaningful improvement in disability. Women treated during pregnancy are also less likely to experience pain postpartum.
Our treatment approach is safe at all stages of pregnancy and may include:
- Chiropractic adjustments: Gentle, pregnancy-safe spinal and pelvic manipulation using drop tables and pregnancy pillows designed to accommodate the growing belly at every stage.
- Webster Technique: A specialized analysis and adjustment for pregnant women that reduces nervous system stress, balances the pelvis, and creates an optimal environment for the baby.
- Manual therapy: Soft tissue techniques to release tension in the low back, hips, and pelvic musculature.
- Kinesio taping / RockTape: Elastic therapeutic tape to support the belly and reduce low back and pelvic pain between appointments.
- Corrective exercises: Core stabilization, pelvic floor preparation, and movement modification to manage symptoms and prepare for delivery.
Call (832) 391-8077 to schedule your prenatal chiropractic appointment at our River Oaks, Memorial, or Heights location today.
Pregnancy-Related Low Back Pain — Frequently Asked Questions
Is chiropractic care safe for low back pain during pregnancy?
Yes. Chiropractic care is safe and highly beneficial throughout pregnancy when provided by a trained practitioner. At MVMT Chiropractic, our providers use pregnancy-specific techniques and specialized tables and positioning to ensure comfort and safety at every stage — including the third trimester.
How common is low back pain during pregnancy?
More than 50% of pregnant women experience back pain at some point during their pregnancy, and over a third rate their pain as severe. It is one of the leading causes of sick leave during pregnancy. Fortunately, it is very effectively treated with the conservative chiropractic care we provide.
What causes low back pain during pregnancy?
The primary causes are hormonal ligament laxity (which reduces pelvic and spinal stability), increased lumbar curve from the shifting center of gravity, altered gait mechanics, and weakened core muscles. These factors combine to stress the lumbar spine, sacroiliac joints, and surrounding soft tissue.
When should I start chiropractic care for pregnancy-related back pain?
You can start at any stage of pregnancy — even in the first trimester before significant symptoms develop. Early care supports your body’s adaptation to the physical changes of pregnancy and reduces the severity of pain later on. The sooner you begin, the more you’ll benefit throughout your pregnancy.
Will treating pregnancy back pain help after delivery?
Yes. Research shows that women who receive chiropractic care during pregnancy are significantly less likely to experience postpartum pain. Addressing pelvic alignment and muscle balance during pregnancy creates a stronger, more resilient foundation for your postpartum recovery.
What is the Webster Technique and is it safe during pregnancy?
The Webster Technique is a safe, specific chiropractic analysis and adjustment for pregnant women that reduces nervous system stress, balances pelvic muscles and ligaments, and creates an optimal uterine environment for the baby. Our providers are ICPA-certified in Webster Technique. Learn more on our prenatal and postpartum care page.
Can sciatica during pregnancy be treated with chiropractic care?
Yes. Sciatica during pregnancy — caused by increased pressure on the sciatic nerve from pelvic and lumbar changes — responds well to chiropractic adjustments, Webster Technique, and manual therapy. Many pregnant patients find significant sciatic relief within their first few visits at MVMT Chiropractic.