Pregnancy-Related Pain Treatment

Up to 70 percent of pregnant women experience low back or pelvic pain at some point during their pregnancy. While it is common, it is not something you simply have to endure. Physical therapy provides safe, effective relief for pregnancy-related pain without medication — protecting both you and your baby.

Pregnancy-related pain typically results from a combination of hormonal changes (relaxin increases ligament laxity), postural shifts as your center of gravity moves forward, weight gain, and changes in core and pelvic floor muscle function. These factors place increased stress on the spine, pelvis, and surrounding soft tissues.

Common symptoms of pregnancy-related pelvic and low back pain include:

• Aching or sharp pain in the low back, especially with prolonged standing or sitting
• Pain at the sacroiliac (SI) joints on one or both sides of the pelvis
• Pubic symphysis pain or pressure in the front of the pelvis
• Hip pain that worsens when rolling in bed or climbing stairs
• Difficulty walking, getting up from a chair, or transitioning between positions
• Pain that increases as the day goes on or after being on your feet

Treatment during pregnancy focuses on gentle, evidence-based techniques that are safe for every trimester while providing meaningful pain relief and improved daily function.

Our therapists are experienced in treating pregnant patients and understand the specific considerations for each trimester. Treatment at The Back Clinic is tailored to your stage of pregnancy and your individual symptoms:

• SI joint and pelvic stabilization — Gentle manual therapy and targeted stabilization exercises to support the joints most affected by hormonal ligament laxity
• Prenatal core program — Modified core strengthening exercises that maintain trunk stability without increasing intra-abdominal pressure or stressing the linea alba
• Postural education — Guidance on optimal positioning for sitting, standing, sleeping, and daily activities as your body changes through each trimester
• Hip and glute strengthening — Building the muscular support system that protects the pelvis and reduces compensatory strain on the low back
• Pelvic floor preparation — Exercises and education to optimize pelvic floor function for delivery and set the stage for faster postpartum recovery
• Support belt guidance — Recommendations on maternity support belts and when they may be appropriate to supplement your exercise program

Every session at The Back Clinic is one-on-one with your physical therapist — never handed off to aides or shared with other patients. This individualized approach allows your therapist to adapt treatment in real time based on how you are feeling that day, which is especially important as your body changes week to week during pregnancy.

Physical therapy is safe throughout all stages of pregnancy. Your first visit includes a thorough evaluation of your posture, joint mobility, muscle strength, and movement patterns, with treatment techniques and exercise positions adapted based on your trimester and comfort level. Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely.

Most patients experience meaningful pain reduction within two to four weeks of starting treatment. Beyond pain relief, therapy provides the added benefit of preparing your body for delivery and setting the foundation for a faster postpartum recovery.

We recommend starting treatment as soon as symptoms develop rather than waiting. Early intervention typically requires fewer visits and prevents the compensatory movement patterns that can make pain progressively worse as pregnancy advances.

Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover physical therapy during pregnancy. You do not need a referral to start treatment in Delaware. Call (302) 529-1900 or schedule online to book your evaluation.