PREGNANCY AND
BACK PAIN
During pregnancy the body changes quickly, and pain in the lower back, pelvis and spine is very common. With Dr. Verbitskiy in Maribor, we use gentle techniques adapted to each trimester, after consulting a gynaecologist.
Pain in the lower back and pelvis is very common during pregnancy. Due to hormonal changes the ligaments relax, the body's centre of gravity shifts forward and the abdominal muscles stretch. The spine and pelvis take on an additional load, which increases as the pregnancy progresses.
Why back pain occurs during pregnancy
It is usually a combination of several factors:
- 🔹 Hormonal relaxation of the ligaments in the pelvis and spine
- 🔹 Forward shift of the body's centre of gravity and increased lumbar curve
- 🔹 Stretched abdominal muscles and weakened trunk stability
- 🔹 Weight gain and pressure on the pelvis
- 🔹 Prolonged sitting or standing that strains the back
- 🔹 Spinal pain that already existed before pregnancy
How pain presents during pregnancy
The most common signs are:
- 🔹 Pain in the lumbar spine that worsens towards the evening
- 🔹 Pain in the sacrum and buttock area
- 🔹 Pain in the pubic bone or the front of the pelvis
- 🔹 Pain radiating to the buttock or thigh
- 🔹 Difficulty turning over in bed or getting up
- 🔹 Tension in the neck and shoulders due to altered posture
How we treat pain in pregnancy
Treatment is gentle and adapted to the trimester. Before starting, we make sure there are no medical reasons that would rule it out.
1. Conversation and assessment
Examination of posture, pelvis and spine, and a conversation about the course of the pregnancy.
2. Gentle manual therapy
Release of tight muscles and improved mobility, adapted to the position of the pregnant woman.
3. Guidance
Recommendations for sleeping and sitting positions and exercises suitable for pregnancy.
Signs that require immediate attention
Consult your gynaecologist immediately or seek emergency help in case of vaginal bleeding, leaking of fluid, regular contractions, reduced baby movements, severe abdominal pain, high fever, or swelling of the face and hands with severe headache or vision disturbances. Very severe or sudden lower back pain should always be assessed by a doctor.
Treatment is appropriate after consulting a gynaecologist, especially in a high-risk pregnancy. For a visit, it is enough to tell us which week of pregnancy you are in.
What our patients say
Verbitskiy, Manualna terapija - Osteopatija, diagnostika, rehabilitacija, d.o.o. · Maribor
Watch videos about manual therapy and osteopathy on our YouTube channel.
Visit YouTube channel →Frequently asked questions about back pain during pregnancy
Is manual therapy safe in pregnancy?
In a healthy pregnancy we use gentle techniques adapted to the trimester. In a high-risk pregnancy or with complications, prior consultation with a gynaecologist is required.
Do I need my gynaecologist's permission?
We recommend consulting your gynaecologist, especially in a high-risk pregnancy, with bleeding or a tendency to premature labour.
From which week is treatment possible?
Treatment is often possible in all trimesters with adapted techniques; we give a specific assessment after a conversation and examination.
Does lower back pain mean labour is approaching?
Not necessarily. Lower back pain is common during pregnancy, but with regular contractions or leaking of fluid, call the maternity hospital or your gynaecologist immediately.
How should I sleep if my back hurts?
Lying on your side with a pillow between the knees and under the belly often helps; we adapt the guidance to your problems.
Can I come after childbirth too?
Yes. After childbirth we often treat back and pelvic pain and advise exercises for gradual strengthening.
Contact us
Get in touch with any questions or to book an appointment.
Please bring one large towel with you to your appointment.
Please confirm your appointment by phone or WhatsApp one hour beforehand, or two hours beforehand if you are travelling a long way. This way you avoid a wasted trip if an appointment has to be rescheduled at short notice.