A common question for expectant parents is whether it is safe to receive spinal adjustments, often referred to as “popping your back,” while pregnant. The answer is generally yes, provided the procedure is performed by a chiropractor or osteopath specifically trained in prenatal care. These gentle, non-invasive adjustments aim to restore proper alignment to the spine and pelvis, which can significantly improve comfort as the body changes.
Safety and Benefits of Spinal Adjustments During Pregnancy
Chiropractic and osteopathic care during pregnancy is considered safe for both the parent and the developing baby when proper techniques are used. The body undergoes significant physiological changes to accommodate the growing fetus, including a shifting center of gravity and postural adaptations. These changes increase stress on the spinal column and surrounding joints, making adjustments a common choice for relief.
A major hormonal change is the release of relaxin, which loosens ligaments throughout the body, particularly in the pelvis, in preparation for birth. This laxity can lead to joint instability and misalignment, which adjustments seek to correct. Primary benefits include a reduction in back and pelvic pain, better sleep quality, and improved nervous system function.
Maintaining spinal and pelvic alignment supports the nervous system, which is crucial for coordinating the reproductive system and overall body function. Regular prenatal adjustments may lead to shorter labor times and a reduction in the need for medical interventions during delivery. Optimizing biomechanical function better prepares the body to handle the stresses of pregnancy and childbirth.
Common Pregnancy-Related Conditions Addressed
Many pregnant individuals seek adjustments to manage musculoskeletal discomforts that arise as pregnancy progresses. Low back pain is one of the most common complaints, affecting a large percentage of expectant parents. This pain is often linked to the increased lumbar curve and the weight of the growing abdomen placing pressure on the spinal joints and nerves.
Adjustments frequently address sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction, a source of deep, persistent pain in the lower back and buttocks. This condition occurs when the joints connecting the pelvis and lower spine become misaligned or irritated due to hormonal softening and increased mechanical stress. Sciatica, characterized by pain radiating down the leg, can also be managed by relieving nerve pressure through gentle spinal and pelvic realignments.
Pelvic girdle pain (PGP), sometimes called symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD), involves discomfort in the pubic bone area and relates to pelvic joint instability. Specialized techniques, such as the Webster Technique, are used to balance the pelvic structures and reduce tension in surrounding muscles and ligaments. This method reduces intrauterine constraint, creating more space for the baby and encouraging optimal fetal positioning.
Modifications to Techniques and Positioning
The physical process of receiving a spinal adjustment is significantly modified to ensure the comfort and safety of the pregnant patient. Since traditional adjustments involving lying face down are impossible, practitioners utilize specialized equipment and positioning to accommodate the growing belly. These modifications ensure no direct pressure is placed on the abdomen or the baby.
Specialized chiropractic tables feature a drop-away section in the middle, allowing the pregnant person to lie comfortably on their stomach. Alternatively, practitioners use pregnancy pillows or wedges to support the abdomen and hips while the patient lies face down or on their side. Side-lying adjustments, often called “side posture” adjustments, are a common way to adjust the lower back and pelvis without strain.
Force is often reduced in prenatal adjustments, sometimes involving low-force techniques or handheld instruments. Because relaxin is present, less force is required to achieve an effective adjustment, making the procedure gentler. The focus remains on gentle, precise movements to restore joint mobility and balance the pelvis, supporting natural changes.
When Spinal Adjustment is Not Recommended
While prenatal spinal care is widely safe, certain high-risk conditions or medical issues are considered absolute contraindications. Any instance of unexplained vaginal bleeding or ruptured amniotic membranes requires immediate medical attention and precludes spinal adjustment.
Conditions related to severe blood pressure issues, such as preeclampsia or toxemia, are also contraindications. If the placenta is positioned over the cervix (placenta previa), an adjustment is not recommended. These medical conditions take precedence, and spinal manipulation could potentially pose a risk.
A patient experiencing undiagnosed, severe pain that is sudden in onset should be medically evaluated before seeking an adjustment. Clearance must always be obtained from the primary obstetrician or healthcare provider before beginning any manual therapy during pregnancy. This collaboration ensures the safest approach for both the mother and the baby.