Prenatal Chiropractic Care in Murrieta, CA
Pregnancy brings many physical changes as the body adapts to support a growing baby. As posture shifts and ligaments soften, many expectant mothers experience back pain, pelvic discomfort, hip tension, or changes in balance. These symptoms can develop gradually or appear suddenly as pregnancy progresses.
Dr. Phillip Vournazos D.C. provides gentle prenatal chiropractic care for patients in Murrieta, focusing on supporting spinal alignment, pelvic balance, and overall comfort throughout pregnancy. At California Oaks Chiropractic, care is adapted specifically for pregnancy and centered on safety, comfort, and individualized support.
Your first visit is focused on listening, understanding your symptoms, and explaining how care may support your pregnancy journey. Call (951) 698-2511 to book an appointment.
What Causes Pregnancy-Related Back & Pelvic Pain?
During pregnancy, a woman’s body undergoes a number of different changes to accommodate the growing baby. As the baby grows, a mother’s center of gravity shifts to the front of her pelvis, resulting in added stress and discomfort in the lower back and the various joints of the pelvis. At the peak of pregnancy, resulting from the associated weight gain, the curve in the lower back (lordotic curve) can increase to the point of causing a serious impact on the vertebral joints, the sacrum, and the hip joints.
The nerves that travel to all other parts of the body have their origin in the spine. When the spine is compressed, these nerves can become irritated, causing the pain to radiate to other areas of the body. Sciatica is a condition commonly stimulated by pregnancy, involving pain that radiates from the lower back all the way down the legs.
If a previous issue exists with the alignment of the spine, and there has been a history of lower back problems, pregnancy will often aggravate the condition. Pregnancy can cause the spine to become misaligned to the point that it does not simply go back into place once the pregnancy is complete. This can make the tasks that become necessary once the child is born, such as carrying a baby on your front or back, breastfeeding, and bending over to lift and pick things up, painfully difficult.
How Do We Diagnose Pregnancy-Related Spinal & Pelvic Issues?
Diagnosis for pregnant patients is handled differently from that of other patients. We do not take X-rays. Clinical history is a big part of the process, and palpation (touch) becomes even more important given the patient’s condition.
We use what we find through history and physical exam to understand what is going on and determine the right approach for each patient.
Prenatal Chiropractic Treatment Plan
Treatment for pregnant patients is adjusted based on the stage of pregnancy they are in. We only have patients face up, not on their stomachs. Certain types of adjustments are used that are appropriate for pregnancy. Soft tissue work is an important part of treatment, including addressing round ligament pain.
We also use Webster’s technique, which is a specific approach for pregnant patients. We have personally had success four out of four times using this technique to flip babies who were positioned for a breech birth.
Prenatal Care Patient Case Studies
Pregnancy-Related Sciatic Pain Managed with Chiropractic Care
Patient Information: A pregnant female patient who was treated all the way through to her delivery.
Symptoms: She had sciatic nerve pain caused by the overall pressure and biomechanical changes to the pelvis from the pregnancy.
Diagnosis: The sciatic nerve pain was directly related to the biomechanical changes the body goes through during pregnancy, particularly the changes to the pelvis as the baby develops.
Treatments: We provided chiropractic treatment and soft tissue treatment with massage throughout her pregnancy up to delivery.
Outcome: With consistent chiropractic care and massage therapy throughout her pregnancy, her sciatic nerve pain improved, and she was able to function comfortably until delivery.
Round Ligament Pain During Pregnancy Addressed with Soft Tissue Therapy
Patient Information: A pregnant female patient presented with groin pain.
Symptoms: She came in with round ligament pain, described as pain almost in the groin area.
Diagnosis: The pain was identified as round ligament pain, which is a common issue during pregnancy.
Treatments: We used certain types of soft tissue work and specific mobilizations of the round ligament to address the pain.
Outcome: After the soft-tissue work and mobilizations, her round ligament pain in the groin area resolved.
Prenatal Chiropractic Patient Testimonials & Reviews
Jasmine K Saleh
I was in need of a serious adjustment & Dr. K and his staff were absolutely wonderful to work with. They took me in the same day I called, within 10 min I was booked and, in the office...
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Denise
Just WOW! Everyone at California Oaks Chiropractic in Murrieta was just professional and very nice. I felt immediately comfortable. Dr. K was very easy to talk to and made me feel at ease...
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Abby Ngo
I had a great experience with Dr. K. This is top-notch chiropractic care! From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed, listened to, and well taken care of. Dr. K combines strong knowledge...
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Rick Scherer
My family and I have been seeing Dr. K for over 20 years, and I can't imagine going anywhere else. From the moment you walk in, you're treated like family. The office staff is incredibly friendly...
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Sandra Guzman
If you are looking for a chiropractor with a lot of knowledge, friendly staff who feels like family, and an overall welcoming environment, this is your place! Dr. K has been vital in helping my husband and I...
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Lorretta Marcum
This morning I was lucky enough to see a Daphne! Oh my heavens do I feel 1000 x better!! Then I saw Dr. Chris for an adjustment and boy does he know his stuff got rid of my sciatica pain instantly...
Read on GoogleBook an Appointment With Your Local Pregnancy Chiropractor
Chiropractic treatment for pregnancy can be an outstanding source of comfort for back pain. Many women also comment that the birthing process was easier after having undergone chiropractic treatments.
If you are curious about how chiropractic can help you with your pregnancy, call our team at California Oaks Chiropractic. We are here to help.
Call (951) 698-2511 or book online using the booking tool below.
Prenatal Chiropractic Patient FAQs
Is chiropractic care safe during pregnancy?
Yes. Prenatal chiropractic care is considered safe when provided by a chiropractor trained in pregnancy-specific techniques. Care is gentle, low force, and adapted to each stage of pregnancy. Techniques avoid pressure on the abdomen and support spinal and pelvic alignment while prioritizing comfort and safety for both mother and baby.
When should prenatal chiropractic care begin?
Prenatal chiropractic care can begin at any stage of pregnancy. Some patients start early to support posture and comfort as the body changes, while others begin later when back, hip, or pelvic discomfort appears. Care is always adjusted based on trimester, symptoms, and individual needs.
Can chiropractic care help with pregnancy-related back pain?
Yes. Pregnancy-related back pain is often linked to posture changes, pelvic imbalance, and increased stress on the spine. Prenatal chiropractic care focuses on improving spinal and pelvic function, which may help reduce strain and support more comfortable movement during pregnancy.
Does prenatal chiropractic care help with baby positioning?
Prenatal chiropractic care does not manually turn or reposition the baby. Instead, it focuses on optimizing pelvic balance and alignment, which may help create an environment that allows the baby to move and position naturally within the uterus.
What techniques are used in prenatal chiropractic care?
Prenatal chiropractic care uses specialized techniques designed for pregnancy, including:
- Gentle spinal and pelvic adjustments
- Pregnancy-safe positioning and support tables
- Soft tissue techniques for muscle tension
- Pelvic balancing approaches
- Postural and movement guidance
All techniques are adapted to the comfort and pregnancy stage.
How often should I see a chiropractor during pregnancy?
Visit frequency varies depending on symptoms, pregnancy stage, and individual response to care. Some patients benefit from periodic visits, while others may require more frequent care during times of increased discomfort. Recommendations are personalized and reviewed regularly.
Do I need imaging or X-rays during pregnancy?
No. Imaging and X-rays are not used during pregnancy for chiropractic care. Diagnosis is based on physical examination, movement assessment, and symptom history, all performed in a pregnancy-safe manner.
Is prenatal chiropractic care painful?
No. Prenatal chiropractic care is designed to be gentle and comfortable. Techniques are modified to avoid discomfort, and care is always adjusted based on how the patient feels during treatment.
Can chiropractic care support labor preparation?
Prenatal chiropractic care may support labor preparation by improving pelvic mobility and balance. A well-balanced pelvis may support comfort and efficient movement during labor, but chiropractic care does not guarantee labor outcomes.
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