Postpartum Back, Hip, and Neck Pain: Why It’s Common—and How Chiropractic Care Can Help

Many people experience discomfort during pregnancy, especially in the lower back and pelvis. A lot of the time, this discomfort eases after birth, however, it is common for new symptoms to pop up during the postpartum period. In the postpartum period, your body is still going through changes, and your body is adapting to caring for your newborn. Back pain, hip pain, and neck tension are extremely common after having a baby and can impact your day-to-day life.

The good news? You don’t have to suffer in pain postpartum. Chiropractic care can provide relief from these symptoms and provide support for your postpartum recovery.

Let’s explore why postpartum pain happens and how chiropractic care can support recovery after pregnancy.

Why Postpartum Pain Is So Common

Postpartum pain is influenced by several factors, including:

1. Hormonal Changes

Relaxin remains in the body for months postpartum, keeping joints and ligaments looser and less stable.

2. Labor and Delivery Stress

Whether vaginal or cesarean, birth places significant stress on the pelvis, spine, and nervous system.

3. Feeding and Holding Your Baby

Prolonged feeding positions, carrying car seats, and rocking babies can strain the neck, shoulders, and upper back.

4. Postural Changes

Your posture shifts during pregnancy—and it doesn’t automatically reset after delivery.

These factors can lead to:

  • Low back pain

  • Hip or pelvic discomfort

  • Neck and shoulder tension

  • Headaches

  • Mid-back pain

  • Feeling “off” or uneven in your body

How Chiropractic Care Supports Postpartum Recovery

Postpartum chiropractic care focuses on helping your body recover and stabilize after pregnancy and birth.

A postpartum chiropractor may help by:

  • Improving spinal and pelvic alignment

  • Reducing muscle tension and compensation patterns

  • Supporting nervous system regulation

  • Improving movement and posture

  • Helping the body adapt to new physical demands

Care is gentle, individualized, and tailored for your stage of healing.

When Is It Safe to See a Chiropractor Postpartum?

Many people can begin chiropractic care within days or weeks after birth, depending on how they’re feeling and their provider’s guidance.

Chiropractic care can be especially helpful:

  • At 6 weeks postpartum and beyond

  • After cesarean or vaginal delivery

  • During breastfeeding or bottle feeding

  • When returning to exercise or work

If you’re unsure, a postpartum chiropractor can help determine the right timing for you.

Chiropractic Care + Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

Chiropractic care works beautifully alongside pelvic floor physical therapy. While pelvic floor PT addresses muscle coordination and strength, chiropractic care supports:

  • Pelvic alignment

  • Spinal mobility

  • Nervous system communication

Together, they create a strong foundation for postpartum healing and long-term comfort.

Signs It’s Time to Seek Postpartum Chiropractic Care

You may benefit from chiropractic care if you’re experiencing:

  • Persistent back or hip pain

  • Neck pain or headaches

  • Pain with feeding or holding your baby

  • A feeling of imbalance or stiffness

  • Difficulty returning to movement or exercise

Pain is common postpartum—but it’s not something you have to “just live with.”

Postpartum Chiropractic Care in Brecksville, Ohio

If you’re dealing with postpartum back, hip, or neck pain, chiropractic care can be a gentle and effective way to support healing.

Postpartum care isn’t about “bouncing back”—it’s about moving forward with strength, comfort, and support.

Looking for a postpartum chiropractor in Brecksville or the Cleveland area? Reach out to our office to learn more or schedule a visit. We can be reached via email at info@clechiropractic.com or phone 216-952-3830.

Dr. Gina