What Maternity Adjusting Is
Maternity adjusting is chiropractic care tailored for pregnancy. Our focus is simple: keep your pelvis, spine, and ribcage moving comfortably as your body changes week to week. We use pregnancy-specific techniques- including the Webster Technique- to gently balance the sacrum, pelvis, and surrounding ligaments. No twisting, no forceful moves; just precise, low-load contacts that help relieve pressure and restore smooth motion.
You’ll be supported on adjusting tables with drop-away belly sections and memory-foam pregnancy pillows, so you can finally lie face-down without strain. We combine light adjustments with soft-tissue release (think round-ligament tension, hip rotators, and low-back muscles), simple mobility drills, and everyday positioning tips. The goal isn’t just “less pain”- it’s easier walking, deeper sleep, and the ability to enjoy your pregnancy with confidence.
How Maternity Adjusting Works
During pregnancy, the hormone relaxin softens connective tissues while the growing belly shifts your center of gravity. That combo can leave the sacroiliac joints, pubic symphysis, and mid-back working overtime. Gentle, targeted adjustments restore normal joint glide so irritated tissues calm down and stabilizing muscles can do their job again. Webster-focused care also addresses asymmetries in the pelvis and tension in key ligaments, which may reduce mechanical stress and create a roomier, more balanced environment for both you and baby.
We scale every contact to your trimester and comfort level. In early pregnancy, care often centers on easing pre-existing back or neck tension and setting healthy movement patterns. Mid- to late-pregnancy, we emphasize pelvic balance, rib mobility for easier breathing, and strategies to manage the extra load on hips and feet. Throughout, we partner with your OB/midwife and, when helpful, refer to pelvic-floor physical therapy for a truly coordinated plan.
What Maternity Adjusting Treats
Maternity adjusting is especially helpful for the everyday aches and mechanical strains that come with pregnancy. We commonly see relief with low-back and pelvic girdle pain, sciatica-style leg symptoms, pubic symphysis discomfort, tailbone pain, and sacroiliac joint irritation. As the ribcage expands, many moms also find mid-back and rib pain ease quickly once the joints can move again.
Beyond the spine, gentle work often calms round-ligament pulling, reduces hip tightness, and improves postural fatigue from standing or desk work. Hand and wrist numbness (pregnancy-related carpal tunnel), calf cramps, and foot discomfort frequently improve once alignment and mechanics are addressed. While chiropractic doesn’t treat medical conditions or try to “turn” babies, balancing the pelvis can make mom more comfortable and may support optimal fetal positioning by reducing muscular and ligamentous tension.
Frequency of Treatments
- Early pregnancy: Weekly for 2–3 weeks, then taper as stability returns
- Third trimester: Often weekly for comfort and pelvic balance
Postpartum, we recommend a re-evaluation once your provider clears you (commonly 2-6 weeks after delivery, depending on your birth and recovery). Early, gentle care helps restore pelvic balance, ease feeding/posture strain, and support the return to walking, lifting, and workouts- always paced to your healing timeline.
What to Expect
Before
We review your pregnancy history, current symptoms, activity level, and any guidance provided from your OB/midwife. We’ll explain exactly what we’ll do and show you the pressure on your hand first so there are no surprises. No routine X-rays are taken during pregnancy to keep the birth
During
You’ll relax on a pregnancy-friendly table or side-lying with supportive bolsters. Adjustments feel like light, precise contacts or soft table “drops” that let gravity assist. We may add brief soft-tissue work for hip rotators or round-ligament tension and finish with simple take-home tips for sleeping, sitting, and lifting.
After
Most moms stand up feeling looser and lighter, with easier walking and breathing. Mild, workout-style soreness can occur for 12-24 hours and typically resolves with water, a short walk, and the positioning tips we provide. We’ll check in and fine-tune your plan as your pregnancy progresses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is maternity chiropractic safe?
Yes, when performed by trained clinicians using pregnancy-specific techniques. We’re Webster-certified and adjust with minimal force, avoiding any procedures that would stress the abdomen. We coordinate with your provider and modify care for high-risk situations.
When should I start care?
Any trimester. Many moms start early to prevent problems and come more often in the third trimester as their body changes rapidly. If you’re already uncomfortable, sooner is better.
Will it hurt or make me sore?
Adjustments are gentle and usually feel relieving. Some moms notice mild soreness later that day (like trying a new stretch), which fades quickly with hydration and movement.
Do you take X-rays while I’m pregnant?
No. We rely on a thorough history and exam. If imaging is ever necessary due to trauma or red flags, we’ll discuss the safest plan and make sure you’re comfortable before moving forward.
Can I come if my pregnancy is high-risk?
Often yes- with modifications and your provider’s input depending on that causation. Certain conditions (active bleeding, unexplained severe pain, preeclampsia, placenta previa, or preterm labor concerns) require medical clearance or may postpone care; your safety comes first.
Do you help after C-section?
Absolutely! We start with very gentle spine and rib work for feeding posture, ease neck and shoulder strain, and gradually re-introduce core and pelvic mechanics as healing allows. Our Shockwave Therapy also works wonders with removing scar tissue! See our Shockwave Therapy tab for more!
Is this covered by insurance?
Many plans cover chiropractic during pregnancy. We’ll verify insurance benefits and review affordable options if you’re paying out of pocket.
Pregnancy should feel powerful- not painful. If you’re ready for easier movement, deeper sleep, and a calmer, balanced pelvis, schedule your maternity evaluation at Back 2 Back Chiropractic!
