Why Does My Low Back Hurt During Pregnancy?

Low back pain is one of the most common complaints I hear from expecting moms at Mountain Movement Chiropractic. For many women, it starts in the second trimester and gradually gets more noticeable as the baby grows. Some describe it as a deep ache across the lower spine. Others feel sharp pain when standing up, rolling over in bed, or walking for long periods.

If you are pregnant and dealing with low back pain, you are not alone. Let’s break down why it happens, what it means for your body, and how to find real relief.

Why Low Back Pain Is So Common During Pregnancy

As your pregnancy progresses, your entire posture changes. Your belly grows outward, your center of gravity shifts forward, and your body has to adapt to new weight distribution. This creates extra stress on the lower spine, especially the joints and muscles that stabilize your pelvis and low back.

Pregnancy hormones also loosen the ligaments that normally hold your joints tightly together. While this is important for labor, it can make your spine and pelvis feel less stable. When ligaments loosen, muscles tighten up to compensate, often causing the familiar aching or sharp tension in the low back.

On top of that, your abdominal muscles stretch to make room for your baby. As they lengthen, they are not able to support your spine as effectively as before. This leaves more work for your back muscles, and the result is soreness, stiffness, and fatigue through the lower spine.

How Your Daily Activities Add to the Strain

Everyday movements can become harder when you are pregnant. Simple activities like getting out of a car, bending over, or standing up from a chair can strain the low back more than usual. Sleeping positions, lifting older children, long workdays, and even walking differently because of belly weight all contribute to tension in the lower spine.

These changes are normal, but that does not mean you should ignore them. Pain is your body’s way of telling you that it needs support.

How Chiropractic Care Helps Reduce Pregnancy Related Low Back Pain

Gentle, pregnancy safe chiropractic adjustments can make a significant difference in how your body feels during pregnancy. At Mountain Movement Chiropractic, the goal is to restore healthy movement to the spine and pelvis so your muscles do not have to work overtime to support every step you take.

When the joints in your low back and pelvis move better, pressure is reduced, inflammation calms down, and your overall posture improves. This can lead to better balance, easier movement, and more comfortable sleep. Most expecting moms notice relief within the first few visits and appreciate how much easier daily activities become.

Our adjustments during pregnancy are always low force and adapted to your stage of pregnancy. You will never be placed in a position that feels unsafe or uncomfortable. Each treatment is built around what your body needs that day.

What You Can Do at Home to Support Your Back

A few simple habits can help reduce low back pain between visits. Supporting your body while sleeping, avoiding deep twisting or bending, using a pillow between your knees, and practicing gentle stretching can all help maintain comfort. Staying active with light movement such as walking can also reduce stiffness and support blood flow.

Most importantly, do not push through severe pain. Pregnancy should be challenging in the normal ways, not painful in the debilitating ones.

You Do Not Have to Live With Pregnancy Back Pain

Low back pain during pregnancy is extremely common, but it is also highly treatable. With the right combination of chiropractic care and simple daily habits, you can move more comfortably, rest better, and enjoy this season of life without feeling held back.

If you want a smoother and more comfortable pregnancy, we are here to help.

📍 Mountain Movement Chiropractic – Spearfish, SD
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