What Is Sciatica—and Why Is It So Common in Pregnancy?
Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve (the largest nerve in your body) becomes irritated or compressed—typically where it exits the lower back and travels down through the hips, glutes, and legs.
During pregnancy, several changes increase the risk of sciatica:
- Hormones like relaxin loosen your ligaments
- Shifting posture due to a growing belly
- Weight gain adds pressure on the spine and pelvis
- Baby's position can press directly on the nerve
The result? A burning, tingling, or aching sensation down your lower back, buttocks, or leg—particularly noticeable when standing, sitting for long periods, or lying down.
Symptoms of Pregnancy-Related Sciatica
- Sharp or burning pain in the lower back, hip, or leg
- Numbness or tingling down the leg
- Difficulty walking or changing positions
- Pain that worsens with movement or prolonged rest
- Discomfort that typically affects one side more than the other
How Chiropractic Care Helps Relieve Pregnancy Sciatica
At SISU Spine & Rehab, we specialize in safe, non-invasive treatment for pregnant patients. Our gentle approach addresses spinal and pelvic alignment to reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve—without medication or invasive procedures.
Here's how we treat it:
1. Gentle Prenatal Adjustments
Using specialized pregnancy cushions and modified techniques, we realign the spine and pelvis to relieve nerve tension and reduce inflammation—without any forceful or uncomfortable movement.
2. Pelvic Balance Correction
We ensure your pelvis stays balanced and mobile, which improves posture and helps create optimal space for your baby.
3. Muscle Release Techniques
Tight glutes, hip flexors, and piriformis muscles often contribute to sciatic pain. We use soft tissue therapy to relax these muscles and ease sciatic tension.
4. Movement & Posture Coaching
We teach you safe stretches, standing and sitting positions, and sleeping postures to keep pressure off your sciatic nerve throughout the day.
"I was 28 weeks pregnant and in tears from sciatica pain. After just a couple visits to Dr. Serbinski, I could walk without limping—and finally sleep again. I'm so thankful for gentle care that actually works!"— Megan F., Springboro
Is Chiropractic Care Safe During Pregnancy?
Yes—when performed by a trained provider like Dr. Serbinski. We use techniques that are specially adapted for prenatal care, avoiding pressure on your abdomen and focusing on comfort, safety, and alignment.
Many OB/GYNs recommend chiropractic care during pregnancy to support pelvic health, reduce pain, and prepare for smoother labor.
Benefits of Chiropractic for Pregnant Women
- Natural relief from back, hip, and leg pain
- Improved pelvic alignment (which may help with baby positioning)
- Better posture as your center of gravity shifts
- Reduced need for medication
- Enhanced comfort and mobility during pregnancy
- Shorter labor times in some cases
FAQ
Q: Can I see a chiropractor in my third trimester?
A: Absolutely. We treat women safely and effectively throughout every stage of pregnancy—even up to the due date.
Q: Will it hurt or feel intense?
A: Not at all. Our techniques are gentle and designed to relax, not stress, your body.
Final Thoughts: Relief Is Possible—Even While Pregnant
You Deserve to Enjoy This Journey, Not Just Endure It
Pregnancy sciatica doesn't have to be part of your experience. At SISU Spine & Rehab, we help you feel better, move easier, and prepare for birth with less pain and more confidence—through care that's designed for moms-to-be.
📞 Call (513) 614-2151
📍 Visit our Springboro, OH clinic
🌐 Schedule your pregnancy consultation at www.sisurehabilitation.com
