Get it checked at Bodyline Health, Lower Plenty
We see patients from across the Diamond Valley, including Eltham, Greensborough, Montmorency, Rosanna and Heidelberg. No referral needed, free parking, onsite X-ray when clinically indicated and HICAPS claiming on the spot.
Written by Dr Phillip Mifsud, Chiropractor & Exercise Physiologist and founder of Bodyline Health, Lower Plenty. Based on Dr Phil’s own video and clinical experience.
Watch the video
How We Treat Mums-to-Be
Dr Phil explains this in under two minutes.
Why does pregnancy cause back and pelvic pain?
Pregnancy is an amazing time, but it changes how your body carries load. Your centre of gravity shifts forward, your lower back curve increases, and hormones loosen your ligaments to prepare for birth. The result for many mums is lower back pain, pelvic or hip tightness, and neck and shoulder tension.
Is chiropractic care safe in pregnancy?
Chiropractic care in pregnancy is widely used and is generally considered safe when provided by a qualified practitioner using techniques adapted for pregnancy. Treatment is always individual: it depends on how you feel and what is comfortable for you. If your pregnancy has complications, check with your obstetrician, GP or midwife first.
How is treatment adapted through pregnancy?
First and second trimesters
You can lie face down as long as you are comfortable. Soft tissue work, gentle adjustments and exercise advice are all tailored to how you are feeling.
Third trimester
Most mums do not want to lie face down by now. Neck and upper back work can all be done seated. As baby gets bigger, you can lie on your side with your feet up, belly supported and out of the way, and treatment, including gentle manipulation if you are comfortable and want it, is done side-on. Most mums do.
Keeping the pelvis loose
Keeping the pelvis moving freely helps with comfort through the later stages of pregnancy.
What else helps?
- Stay active with walking, swimming or pregnancy-specific classes
- Sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees
- Avoid standing on one leg for long periods, such as dressing while standing
- Book in early if pain starts, rather than pushing through
Who at Bodyline Health can help with chiropractic care in pregnancy?
Because Bodyline Health has several disciplines under one roof at 17 Main Road, Lower Plenty, your care can be shared between practitioners who talk to each other.
- Dr Phillip Mifsud (Chiropractor): seated and side-lying treatment for back, pelvic and neck pain in pregnancy.
- Jack Robertson (Remedial massage): massage to ease tension, positioned comfortably.
- Catherine Farchione (Chinese Medicine and acupuncture): acupuncture, which some mums use during pregnancy.
- Wayne Grant (Naturopath): nutrition and wellbeing support, in consultation with your pregnancy care team.
When to seek urgent medical help
Contact your maternity unit, midwife or doctor immediately (or call 000) if you have vaginal bleeding, fluid loss, severe or constant abdominal pain, a severe headache or vision changes, sudden swelling of the face or hands, or reduced baby movements.
If you have questions about chiropractic care in pregnancy, talk with your midwife or GP as well as Dr Phil.
Further reading on chiropractic care in pregnancy: Backache in pregnancy (Pregnancy, Birth and Baby).
Common questions
Is it safe to see a chiropractor while pregnant?
Chiropractic care is widely used in pregnancy and is generally considered safe with a qualified practitioner using pregnancy-adapted techniques. Check with your pregnancy care team if you have complications.
Can I lie on my stomach for treatment when pregnant?
Yes, as long as you are comfortable. Later in pregnancy, treatment is done seated or lying on your side instead.
How do chiropractors treat pregnant women in the third trimester?
Neck and back work can be done seated, and lower back and pelvic work is done lying on your side with your feet up, with the belly supported.
Can chiropractic help pelvic pain in pregnancy?
Many mums find treatment that keeps the pelvis loose and mobile helps with comfort, alongside exercise and good sleeping positions.
Do I need a referral?
No referral is needed to book with Bodyline Health in Lower Plenty.
This article is general information, not a diagnosis or a substitute for individual medical advice. If you are unsure, see your GP or book an assessment.
