A chiropractor can help ease postpartum back pain by providing services that help realign the spine and pelvis after they’ve supported a growing baby.
Postpartum back pain can have several different causes, and it’s important to choose a chiropractor who is familiar with your needs post-birth. Gentle spinal adjustment methods are typically preferable in the postpartum period, and you may need medication-free options if you are breastfeeding. Taking a closer look at how chiropractic care can help ease back pain in the postpartum period helps you find greater comfort as you transition into parenting a newborn.
What Causes Postpartum Back Pain?
According to ClinMed International Library, approximately 75% of women experience back pain after birth, which can arise from multiple causes such as sciatica or postural changes. The causes of back pain might include alterations in the joints and ligaments that attach to your spine. You could also have shifts in your spinal alignment that develop from breastfeeding, carrying a growing baby and other changes in your lifestyle.
Structural and Musculoskeletal Changes
During pregnancy, your body undergoes changes that include weight gain, which puts additional strain on your body’s musculoskeletal system. As your center of gravity changes, it is common for lower back pain to develop.
Hormonal Influences On the Body
According to the National Library of Medicine, increases in progesterone and relaxin levels can increase joint laxity as your body prepares for childbirth. During the postpartum period, you may still feel the effects of hormonal influences on your joints and back muscles, especially if you are breastfeeding.
How Can a Chiropractor Help With Postpartum Back Pain?
Chiropractors assess your spinal health using imaging tests, visual exams and postural assessments to identify treatments that will help you feel greater comfort. Since back pain can have many causes, you’ll benefit from having care that includes a personalized treatment plan.
Is Chiropractic Care Safe After Giving Birth
Yes, chiropractic care is safe during the postpartum period. For the ultimate level of safety, make sure to discuss your recent pregnancy and childbirth experience with your chiropractor.
When to See a Chiropractor After Giving Birth
According to the American Pregnancy Association, you can see a chiropractor starting in pregnancy and continuing into the postpartum period. You’ll want to see a chiropractor if you experience pain in your lower back, hips or upper thighs. Tingling, numbness and stiffness in your back are also signs you need to see a chiropractor for postpartum care.
Chiropractic Techniques for Postpartum Pain Relief
Chiropractors use several safe and gentle techniques for relieving back pain in the postpartum period. Taking a look at them helps you prepare for your first chiropractic appointment.
Gentle Spinal Adjustments
According to WebMD, getting spinal adjustments early in your journey with back pain can prevent future problems. Gentle spinal manipulations can realign your spine and take pressure off the nerves in this region.
Soft Tissue Therapy
Soft tissue therapy involves using gentle techniques such as massage and stretching to improve your range of motion and relieve back pain. Chiropractors have the training necessary to massage new parents during the postpartum period without causing injury.
Benefits of Chiropractic Care for New Mothers
The demand on your body during the postpartum period can increase the challenges you face with back pain. Having a chiropractor provide you with care helps you to feel more comfortable as you focus on your baby.
Drug-Free and Noninvasive Procedures
Breastfeeding could require you to avoid taking certain medications, and you may prefer to avoid surgeries during your post-birth recovery. Spinal manipulations, heat and cold therapy and massage are drug-free options for improving back pain.
Quicker Post-Pregnancy Recovery
Postpartum recovery tends to go faster when you are feeling good enough to participate in post-birth exercises such as walking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Getting fast answers to your questions about chiropractic care and postpartum back pain helps you find relief when you need it the most.
How do you get rid of postpartum back pain?
Addressing the underlying causes of postpartum back pain with chiropractic care helps you get long-term relief.
Should you go to a chiropractor postpartum?
Yes, experienced chiropractors can provide safe postpartum back pain care. Receiving postural advice, soft tissue therapy and spinal adjustments can help you recover faster.
Why does my back hurt so bad after giving birth?
Pregnancy and childbirth can cause musculoskeletal changes that cause pain after you give birth. Caring for a newborn can exacerbate the discomfort by adding strain to your muscles and spine.
How long does postpartum lower back pain last?
Postpartum lower back pain could last for weeks or even years without professional chiropractic treatments that address the underlying cause.
