Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy | West LA Chiropractor
Is chiropractic care during pregnancy safe? For most healthy pregnancies, yes — when a chiropractor uses techniques modified for pregnancy, avoids X-rays, and adjusts positioning as the body changes. Up to 90% of pregnant patients experience low back or pelvic pain low back or pelvic pain, and chiropractic care during pregnancy is one option patients use to manage it without medication.
Why Pregnancy Causes Back and Pelvic Pain
As pregnancy progresses, shifting weight, loosening ligaments, and a changing center of gravity put new strain on the lower spine and pelvis. This commonly shows up as low back pain, pelvic girdle pain, or sciatica-like nerve pain down the leg — often worse by the third trimester.
Is Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy Safe?
Because so few high-quality trials exist, researchers can’t yet make a definitive safety guarantee. However, a 2021 systematic review in the Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association found limited evidence of adverse events following spinal manipulation during pregnancy and the postpartum period, and the authors noted that such injuries appear to be uncommon1. That’s why Dr. Karr modifies technique and positioning for every pregnant patient and does not perform X-rays during pregnancy — a standard precaution, not an exception.
What the Research Says About Effectiveness
A 2020 systematic review in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics examined chiropractic care for pregnancy-related low back and pelvic girdle pain and found the evidence favorable, though still inconclusive due to a lack of large randomized trials2. In other words: many patients report meaningful relief, but researchers are still building a stronger evidence base. Individual results vary.
Chiropractic Care vs. Other Options for Pregnancy-Related Back Pain
| Option | What It Addresses | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Chiropractic adjustment | Spinal/pelvic misalignment, nerve pressure | Pregnancy-modified technique, no X-rays |
| Prenatal massage | Muscle tension | Complements, doesn’t correct alignment |
| Physical therapy | Strength, stability, exercise-based | Often used alongside chiropractic care |
| Medication | Pain symptoms | Limited options considered safe during pregnancy |
What to Expect at Your First Visit
Dr. Michael C. Karr, D.C. — a UCLA Kinesiology graduate who completed a postgraduate program in radiology — has treated patients throughout West Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Brentwood, Culver City, Bel Air, Venice, and Westwood for over 35 years. West Los Angeles Chiropractic® is conveniently located near the 10 and 405 freeways, with a ground-floor office, free parking, and paperless intake.
FAQ: Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy
Is chiropractic care during pregnancy safe?
For most healthy pregnancies, chiropractic care using pregnancy-modified technique is considered a reasonable option. Research on adverse events is limited, but existing reviews suggest serious complications are uncommon. Always inform your OB/GYN or midwife before beginning any new care during pregnancy.
When during pregnancy can I start chiropractic care?
Many patients begin care as soon as discomfort starts, at any trimester. Dr. Karr evaluates each patient individually before recommending a plan.
Will Dr. Karr take X-rays during my visit?
No. X-rays are not performed on pregnant patients. The exam and adjustment are modified accordingly.
Does insurance cover prenatal chiropractic care?
Most major PPO plans are accepted, including Anthem Blue Cross, Cigna, Aetna, and UnitedHealthcare. Call Betty at 310-914-9400 to verify your specific benefits.
Individual results vary. Not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional, including your OB/GYN or midwife, before beginning any new care during pregnancy.
Related: Safe Pregnancy Pain Relief with Chiropractic Family Care
Sources:
1. Weis CA, Stuber K, Murnaghan K, Wynd S. “Adverse Events from Spinal Manipulations in the Pregnant and Postpartum Periods: A Systematic Review and Update.” J Can Chiropr Assoc. 2021;65(1):32–49. PubMed
2. Weis CA, Pohlman K, Draper C, daSilva-Oolup S, Stuber K, Hawk C. “Chiropractic Care for Adults With Pregnancy-Related Low Back, Pelvic Girdle Pain, or Combination Pain: A Systematic Review.” J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2020;43(7):714–731. PubMed
