Understanding Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy — and How Chiropractic Care Can Help Naturally
Pelvic pain during pregnancy is common, but it is not something you simply have to “live with.” Many expecting moms in Plano, Murphy, and Richardson experience aching, sharp, or unstable sensations in the front or back of the pelvis, hips, and low back as their body changes. This discomfort can make it difficult to walk, sleep, exercise, or even care for other children, and it can take away from the joy of pregnancy.
From a neurological standpoint, your body relies on clear communication between the brain, spinal cord, and the muscles and ligaments supporting the pelvis. When spinal or pelvic joints shift out of their normal position (subluxate), they can create nerve interference, muscle imbalance, and altered movement patterns, all of which may contribute to pelvic pain during pregnancy. Gentle, neurologically based chiropractic care focuses on restoring this communication so your body can adapt better to the rapid changes of pregnancy.
At Vita Nova Chiropractic, we provide safe, specific adjustments tailored to pregnant women. Our focus is on supporting the nervous system, pelvic alignment, and overall balance so that you can experience more comfort, mobility, and confidence throughout your pregnancy with natural relief for pelvic pain during pregnancy.
What Causes Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy?
Pelvic pain during pregnancy usually develops from a combination of hormonal changes, postural shifts, increased load on the spine and pelvis, and underlying spinal or pelvic misalignments. As your baby grows, your center of gravity changes, ligaments become more relaxed, and the demands on your pelvic joints increase. If your nervous system and musculoskeletal system are not adapting well, tension and instability in the pelvic region can create ongoing pain or discomfort.
Hormonal Changes and Ligament Laxity
Pregnancy hormones like relaxin soften ligaments around the pelvis to prepare your body for birth. While this is necessary, it can also lead to joint instability, especially if there are pre-existing imbalances. At Vita Nova Chiropractic, we focus on stabilizing the pelvis through gentle adjustments so your body can better handle these normal hormonal shifts.
Pelvic and Lumbar Misalignments (Subluxations)
Small shifts in the alignment of the lumbar spine, sacrum, and pelvic joints can put extra stress on nerves and surrounding soft tissues. These subluxations may result from prior injuries, repetitive stress, or simply from the additional weight and posture changes of pregnancy. Correcting these misalignments can help improve joint function and reduce pelvic pain during pregnancy.
Altered Posture and Center of Gravity
As your baby grows, the spine often shifts into an exaggerated curve, the pelvis can tilt forward, and the upper body may lean back to compensate. This altered posture places more load on the pelvic joints and ligaments, frequently contributing to pain. Chiropractic care works to restore better spinal balance, helping you move more comfortably.
Muscle Imbalances and Core Instability
Weak or inhibited core muscles, tight hip flexors, and overworked low back muscles can all affect how force is distributed through the pelvis. This imbalance may cause certain pelvic joints to move too much, and others not enough, leading to irritation and pain. By improving nervous system function, chiropractic adjustments help muscles coordinate more effectively to support the pelvis.
Previous Injuries and Scar Tissue
A history of falls, sports injuries, car accidents, or prior pregnancies can leave behind residual misalignments and scar tissue. These areas may become more symptomatic as your body adapts to pregnancy. At Vita Nova Chiropractic, we evaluate these patterns and address them with specific, gentle care plans tailored to your needs.
Common Symptoms of Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy
Pelvic pain during pregnancy can show up in many ways, from mild ache to sharp, shooting discomfort. Recognizing these patterns can help you seek care before symptoms worsen.
- Aching or sharp pain in the front of the pelvis near the pubic bone
- Pain in one or both sacroiliac (SI) joints at the back of the hips
- Clicking, grinding, or “giving way” sensations in the pelvis
- Discomfort when rolling over in bed or getting in and out of a car
- Radiating pain into the groin, inner thighs, or buttocks
- Feeling of pelvic instability or weakness
- Increased low back pain alongside pelvic discomfort
- Difficulty finding a comfortable sleeping position
<li“>Pain that worsens with walking, standing on one leg, or climbing stairs
How Chiropractic Care Helps With Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy
Chiropractic care for pelvic pain during pregnancy centers on correcting spinal and pelvic subluxations that interfere with the nervous system’s ability to coordinate muscles, joints, and ligaments. Subluxations are subtle misalignments or restrictions in motion that create stress on the nerves, spinal cord, and surrounding tissues.
When there is nerve interference, the brain cannot accurately sense what is happening in the pelvis, nor can it send precise signals back to the muscles and ligaments that support that region. This miscommunication often leads to uneven tension, poor joint mechanics, and pain. Neurologically based chiropractic care restores better alignment and mobility to the spinal and pelvic joints, reducing this interference.
By improving nervous system communication, the body can better regulate inflammation, coordinate muscle activity, and adapt to the changing demands of pregnancy. Many women notice improved mobility, less pain, easier walking, and greater overall comfort as their body functions more efficiently.
Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy
- Natural relief for pelvic pain during pregnancy without drugs or surgery
- Improved pelvic alignment and joint stability
- Reduced stress on sacroiliac and pubic symphysis joints
- Enhanced nervous system function and brain-body communication
- Better posture and balance as your pregnancy progresses
- Decreased muscle tension and compensation in the low back and hips
- Improved mobility for walking, sleeping, and daily activities
- Support for a more comfortable pregnancy experience overall
- Gentle techniques appropriate for all stages of pregnancy
The Brain-Body Connection — Why Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy Affects More Than Pain
Your pelvis is a central hub where major nerves, muscles, and ligaments come together. The brain constantly receives input from this region to maintain balance, movement, and stability. When pelvic joints are misaligned or inflamed, the altered input to the brain can create more tension, guarding, and imbalance throughout the body, not just in the pelvis.
By improving spinal and pelvic alignment, neurologically focused chiropractic care supports more accurate signaling between the brain and body. Many pregnant women report not only less pelvic pain, but also better energy, improved sleep, reduced overall tension, and a greater sense of ease in daily life. Techniques such as the Zone Technique focus specifically on restoring balance to different functional “zones” of the body, further enhancing the brain-body connection.
How Subluxations Contribute to Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy
Subluxations in the lumbar spine, sacrum, and pelvis can distort how forces are transmitted through the pelvic ring. During pregnancy, as ligaments loosen and weight increases, these distorted forces become more pronounced. Joints that are not moving correctly can irritate nearby nerves, create localized inflammation, and cause muscles to tighten protectively, all contributing to pelvic pain during pregnancy.
Left uncorrected, subluxations can make it harder for your body to adapt to each trimester’s demands. Your nervous system stays in a higher state of stress, which can worsen pain perception and slow down normal healing processes. Addressing subluxations helps restore smoother, more coordinated movement and allows the nervous system to function with less interference.
- Increased mechanical stress on the sacroiliac and pubic symphysis joints
- Heightened muscle tension and spasms in the low back, hips, and pelvic floor
- Altered gait and posture that place additional strain on other joints
- Reduced nervous system efficiency, leading to slower adaptation and healing
- Greater risk of ongoing discomfort into the postpartum period
Scientific Evidence Supporting Chiropractic and Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy Relief
Chiropractic management of dominating one-sided pelvic girdle pain in pregnant women: a randomized controlled trial (2017)
This randomized controlled trial investigated pregnant women with one-sided pelvic girdle pain (PGP) who received individualized chiropractic care compared with usual care. The study found no statistically significant difference between groups in pain, disability, or need for sick leave — though confidence intervals were wide, allowing for possible positive effects. The authors note the complexity of pregnancy-related pain and the need for further research. PMC+1
A multimodal approach to low back and pelvic pain in mid-pregnancy benefits patients more than standard obstetric care (2013)
In this randomized trial, pregnant women receiving a combined treatment — manual therapy, education, and exercises — experienced significantly greater reductions in pain and disability compared with standard obstetric care alone. While not exclusively chiropractic, the study supports manual therapies and multimodal care as potentially more effective than standard care for pregnancy-related pelvic pain. PubMed
Effectiveness of complementary manual therapies (massage, chiropractic, osteopathy) for low back and pelvic pain during pregnancy: systematic review (2016)
This systematic review assessed various manual therapies for pregnancy-related low back pain (LBP) and pelvic girdle pain (PGP). The authors found some reports of reduced pain and improved disability with manual therapy compared to usual care or relaxation. However, they also noted that when compared to sham interventions, evidence was inconsistent — highlighting the need for higher quality research. PubMed+1
Chiropractic care for adults with pregnancy-related low back, pelvic girdle pain, or a combination: systematic review (2020)
This review evaluated the effectiveness of common chiropractic treatments (mobilization, spinal manipulation, soft-tissue work) for pregnancy-related low back and pelvic pain. It found mixed results: some pregnant patients reported symptom reduction and functional improvement, but evidence is limited and outcomes vary by individual. Authors recommend more rigorous, controlled studies before drawing firm conclusions. PubMed+1
Our Approach at Vita Nova Chiropractic
Comprehensive Consultation
Your first visit begins with a detailed conversation about your pregnancy, symptom patterns, lifestyle, and health history. We listen carefully to understand how pelvic pain during pregnancy is affecting your daily life and your goals for this pregnancy and beyond.
Neurological & Spinal Assessment
We perform a thorough, non-invasive evaluation of your spine, pelvis, posture, and nervous system. This may include orthopedic checks, neurological testing, and motion-based assessments to identify subluxations and areas of imbalance. Our focus is on determining how your nervous system is adapting to pregnancy.
Gentle, Targeted Adjustments
We use pregnancy-appropriate, gentle techniques to correct spinal and pelvic subluxations, reduce nerve interference, and improve alignment. Methods such as the Zone Technique and other neurologically based approaches are tailored to your comfort and trimester. Our goal is to create a balanced, stable pelvis and support optimal brain-body communication.
Ongoing Support & Progress Tracking
As your pregnancy progresses, your body continues to change, and so does your care plan. We monitor your progress, modify adjustments as needed, and provide guidance on movement, posture, and self-care strategies to help maintain improvements. Many women in Plano, Murphy, and Richardson choose to continue care postpartum to support recovery and long-term spinal health.
Why Choose Vita Nova Chiropractic?
- Focus on neurologically based chiropractic care for expecting moms
- Experience helping women find natural relief for pelvic pain during pregnancy
- Gentle techniques designed specifically for safety and comfort in pregnancy
- Thorough, personalized evaluations and tailored care plans
- Convenient access for families in Plano, Murphy, and Richardson, TX
- Emphasis on long-term function, not just temporary symptom relief
- Education and support to help you move, sleep, and feel better at home
- Family-friendly office environment that welcomes moms and children
Frequently Asked Questions — Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy & Chiropractic Care
Is chiropractic care safe for pelvic pain during pregnancy?
Chiropractic care that is gentle and pregnancy-focused is generally considered safe for most expecting mothers. At Vita Nova Chiropractic, we use techniques and positioning specifically adapted for each stage of pregnancy to keep you and your baby comfortable. We avoid any procedures that put pressure on the abdomen and always work within your tolerance. If you have a high-risk pregnancy, we will coordinate with your medical provider as needed.
When should I start seeing a chiropractor for pelvic pain during pregnancy?
You can begin care at any stage of pregnancy, but earlier is often better to prevent worsening discomfort. Many women start chiropractic care as soon as they notice pelvic or low back pain, while others begin proactively in the first or second trimester. Regardless of when you start, neurologically based chiropractic adjustments can support your body’s ability to adapt and may provide meaningful relief.
Will chiropractic adjustments hurt or feel too intense while I’m pregnant?
Adjustments for pregnant women are typically very gentle and tailored to your comfort. We use specific, low-force techniques and pregnancy-compatible tables or cushions to keep you relaxed and supported. Most patients describe adjustments as relieving, and many feel immediate ease or lightness afterward. Our priority is always your safety and comfort.
How many visits will I need before I feel relief?
The number of visits varies depending on how long you have had pelvic pain during pregnancy, the severity of your symptoms, and how your body responds to care. Some women notice improvement within a few visits, while others require more consistent care over several weeks to stabilize the pelvis and nervous system. After your initial assessment, we will discuss a recommended care plan and expected timeline based on your specific findings.
Can chiropractic care help with other pregnancy-related issues?
By improving nervous system function and spinal alignment, many women experience benefits beyond pelvic pain relief, such as less low back discomfort, improved posture, better sleep, and increased overall comfort. While we do not treat specific medical conditions, supporting the neuromusculoskeletal system often has positive ripple effects throughout the body. Our goal is to help your body function at its best so you can enjoy a healthier pregnancy experience.
Ready to Get Relief From Your Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy?
If pelvic pain during pregnancy is limiting your daily activities or stealing joy from this special season, you do not have to wait for it to get worse. Gentle, neurologically based chiropractic care can help restore alignment, reduce nerve interference, and support a more comfortable pregnancy.
Contact Vita Nova Chiropractic today at (214) 380-5387 to schedule your evaluation. Whether you live in Plano, Murphy, Richardson, or the surrounding areas, we are here to help you experience natural relief for pelvic pain during pregnancy and support your body’s innate ability to heal and adapt.
Disclaimer
We do not diagnose or treat conditions, diseases, or symptoms. Our care is centered on improving the neuromusculoskeletal system by addressing spinal subluxations and the subluxation complex. Any improvement in overall health or function is the natural result of restoring proper spinal alignment and supporting the body’s innate ability to heal itself. For medical diagnosis or treatment, please consult a licensed medical professional.
