Pregnancy & Low Back Pain: Why Staying Active Matters

Pregnancy brings many changes to your body, and low back pain is one of the most common.

A recent study found that nearly 2 out of 3 pregnant women experienced low back pain. For many women, this pain can affect more than just their comfort. It can make it harder to stay active, sleep well, work, and enjoy everyday activities.

Why does pregnancy cause back pain?

As your body changes during pregnancy, your posture, balance, and the way you move can change too. Your growing belly also puts more stress on your lower back and pelvis.

While some discomfort can be a normal part of pregnancy, that doesn't mean you have to simply live with it.

Movement can make a difference

The same study found that women who were physically inactive had more than twice the odds of experiencing musculoskeletal pain.

This is an important reminder that, when appropriate, movement can be helpful during pregnancy. Regular activity can support your muscles and joints, improve your overall fitness, and help you stay comfortable as your body changes.

For most healthy pregnancies, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and U.S. physical activity guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week.

That might include activities such as:

●        Walking

●        Swimming or water exercise

●        Stationary cycling

●        Pregnancy-friendly strength exercises

You don't have to do it all at once. Breaking activity into smaller amounts throughout the week can make it easier to fit movement into your routine.

Find the right activities for you

Every pregnancy is different. The type and amount of activity that is right for you may depend on your health, fitness level, stage of pregnancy, and any pregnancy-related concerns.

If you're experiencing low back pain, don't assume that rest is your only option. A healthcare professional can help you determine which movements and exercises are appropriate for you.

Always talk with your OB or other pregnancy care provider before starting or changing an exercise program during pregnancy.

Source: Alshebly M, et al. Musculoskeletal pain during pregnancy and its impact on quality of life: A cross-sectional study. European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology X. 2026.

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Additional Benefits of Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy

According to the American Pregnancy Association (APA), chiropractic care is a safe and beneficial option for many women during pregnancy, particularly for managing common musculoskeletal discomforts.

What can chiropractic care help with?

The APA identifies several potential benefits of chiropractic care during pregnancy, including:

• Reducing back and pelvic discomfort

• Improving spinal and pelvic mobility

• Helping maintain a more comfortable posture as the body changes

• Reducing the time of labor and delivery

• Potentially aiding in the prevention of cesarean

  
  

Chiropractic care can also be modified as pregnancy progresses. Positioning and treatment techniques can be adjusted to accommodate the growing abdomen and keep the mother comfortable. Maintaining normal movement and pelvic function may be helpful as the body prepares for delivery.

Is chiropractic care safe during pregnancy?

For women with uncomplicated pregnancies, appropriately modified chiropractic care is generally considered a conservative option. The APA recommends choosing a chiropractor who has experience and training in caring for pregnant women.

As with any healthcare decision during pregnancy, communication with your prenatal care provider is important—particularly when complications or other medical concerns are present.

Pregnancy changes your body, but significant discomfort doesn't necessarily have to be something you simply live with. If you're experiencing back, pelvic, hip, or other musculoskeletal discomfort during pregnancy, chiropractic care may be one conservative option worth discussing with your healthcare providers.

Source: American Pregnancy Association, “Benefits & Safety of Visiting a Chiropractor During Pregnancy.”