pre- and post-natal chiropractic / pregnancy chiropractor in Markham

Quick guide: pre- and post-natal chiropractic care in Markham

Condition:

Pregnancy-related and postpartum musculoskeletal discomfort.

Common symptoms:

• low back pain
• hip and pelvic pain
• sciatica
• pubic symphysis pain
• neck and shoulder pain
• rib pain
• wrist and forearm pain from holding the baby
• postural strain from breastfeeding or baby care

Common causes:

• hormonal ligament laxity (relaxin hormone)
• weight gain during pregnancy
• shifting center of gravity
• pelvic imbalance
• muscle tension and joint instability
• physical demands of caring for a newborn

Treatment options:

• gentle chiropractic adjustments with pregnancy pillows
• Webster Technique
• soft tissue therapy
• postural and ergonomic advice
• pregnancy-safe exercises and stretches

Understanding chiropractic care during pregnancy and postpartum

Pregnancy and the postpartum period place unique physical demands on the body. As your baby grows and hormones change, increased stress is placed on the spine, pelvis, and surrounding muscles—often leading to pain, tension, and reduced mobility.

Pre- and post-natal chiropractic care provides a safe, gentle, and effective way to support your body during this time. Treatment focuses on restoring joint motion, reducing muscular tension, and maintaining proper pelvic alignment to improve comfort and function.

At in balance chiropractic + acupuncture clinic in Markham, Dr. Kirsten Thomas provides personalized care for pregnant women and new mothers using techniques specifically adapted for each stage of pregnancy and postpartum recovery.

The International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) recommends chiropractic care throughout pregnancy to support pelvic balance, nervous system function, and maternal comfort.

Why chiropractic care is beneficial during pregnancy

During pregnancy, the body undergoes rapid biomechanical and hormonal changes. As the abdomen grows and posture shifts, additional stress is placed on the spine, pelvis, and surrounding muscles.

Chiropractic care can help:

• reduce back, hip, and pelvic pain
• improve pelvic alignment and balance
• decrease muscle tension
• support better posture and mobility
• improve overall comfort throughout pregnancy

Maintaining proper pelvic alignment may also help create a more optimal environment for the developing baby.

Common pregnancy pain conditions we treat in Markham

During pregnancy, hormonal, postural, and biomechanical changes can create stress on the spine, pelvis, and surrounding muscles. At in balance chiropractic + acupuncture clinic in Markham, Dr. Kirsten Thomas regularly helps pregnant patients manage a variety of pregnancy-related musculoskeletal conditions.

Pregnancy-Related Low Back Pain

Low back pain is one of the most common complaints during pregnancy. As the baby grows, the center of gravity shifts forward, placing increased stress on the lumbar spine and surrounding muscles.

Chiropractic treatment helps restore joint motion, reduce muscular tension, and support proper spinal alignment, which can significantly reduce pregnancy-related back pain.

Pregnancy Sciatica

Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve becomes irritated or compressed, causing pain that radiates from the lower back into the buttock and down the leg.

During pregnancy, this may occur due to pelvic misalignment, muscle tension, or pressure from surrounding structures.

Chiropractic care can help reduce nerve irritation, improve pelvic balance, and relieve sciatic pain.

Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP)

Pelvic girdle pain occurs when the joints and ligaments of the pelvis become unstable due to hormonal changes and increased joint mobility.

Symptoms may include:

– pain in the pelvis or hips

– difficulty walking or climbing stairs

– discomfort when turning in bed

– pain when standing on one leg

Chiropractic adjustments and soft tissue therapy can help improve pelvic alignment and reduce strain on the surrounding muscles and ligaments.

Pubic Symphysis Dysfunction (SPD)

Pubic symphysis dysfunction occurs when the joint at the front of the pelvis becomes overly mobile or inflamed during pregnancy.

Symptoms may include:

• sharp pain in the front of the pelvis
• clicking or grinding sensations
• pain when walking or separating the legs
• difficulty getting in and out of a car or bed

Chiropractic care focuses on stabilizing the pelvis and reducing muscular tension to improve comfort and mobility.

Pregnancy Hip Pain

Hip pain during pregnancy often develops as the pelvis widens and muscles adapt to the growing baby.

Muscle imbalance, joint instability, and sleeping positions can all contribute to hip discomfort.

Chiropractic treatment and soft tissue therapy can improve hip mobility and reduce muscular tension.

Rib Pain During Pregnancy

As the baby grows and the uterus expands upward, the ribs may flare outward and create discomfort or pressure under the rib cage.

Chiropractic care can help restore mobility to the thoracic spine and rib joints, reducing pain and improving breathing comfort.

Neck and upper back pain during pregnancy

Postural changes, sleeping positions, and daily activities can place strain on the neck and shoulders.

Many pregnant patients experience tension headaches, upper back pain, or shoulder tightness.

Chiropractic treatment and soft tissue therapy can help relieve muscular tension and improve posture.

Wrist and hand pain (pregnancy carpal tunnel syndrome)

Fluid retention and hormonal changes during pregnancy may cause compression of nerves in the wrist, resulting in numbness, tingling, or pain in the hands.

Chiropractic care can help improve nerve function and reduce tension affecting the wrist and forearm.

Common symptoms during pregnancy and after delivery

Pregnancy and postpartum recovery often involve a range of musculoskeletal symptoms.

Neck and upper back pain

Often caused by postural changes, breastfeeding positions, or prolonged time holding and caring for a baby.

Low back pain

One of the most common pregnancy complaints, caused by weight gain, postural shifts, and ligament laxity.  It is also common complaint from bending over a crib, change table or bathtub and the stress of carrying a baby or car seat.

Hip and pelvic pain

As the pelvis adapts to pregnancy, joint mobility increases, which can lead to instability and muscular tension.  Afterwards, holding a baby “on your hip” can lead to postural changes.

Pubic symphysis pain

Pain in the front of the pelvis due to joint instability and ligament relaxation.

Sciatica

Compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve can cause pain radiating down the leg.

Wrist and forearm pain

Often associated with repetitive lifting and holding of the baby.

Rib pain

Caused by expansion of the rib cage as the baby grows.

Postural strain

Feeding, rocking, carrying, and lifting a baby can place additional strain on the spine and shoulders.

What causes pregnancy and postpartum pain?

Several factors contribute to discomfort during pregnancy and after delivery.

Weight gain

Additional weight places increased stress on joints, muscles, and ligaments.

Postural changes

As the center of gravity shifts forward, spinal alignment and muscle balance are affected.

Hormonal changes

Hormones such as relaxin loosen ligaments and connective tissues to prepare the body for childbirth. This can increase joint mobility and muscular strain.

Pelvic instability

Changes in the pelvis can cause tension in surrounding muscles and ligaments.

Daily physical demands

Activities such as bending over a crib, change table or bathtub, breastfeeding, lifting a baby or car seat, and carrying a diaper bag or baby “on your hip” can contribute to strain and discomfort.

Chiropractic care helps address these issues by restoring proper joint motion, reducing muscular tension, and improving overall spinal and pelvic function.

What does pre- and post-natal chiropractic treatment in Markham involve?

Chiropractors trained in pregnancy care use specialized techniques designed to ensure comfort and safety for both mother and baby.

Treatment may include:

Gentle chiropractic adjustments

Modified techniques and pregnancy-specific tables with drop pieces and supportive cushions allow safe and comfortable care.

Soft tissue therapy

Helps release muscular tension and improve mobility in the back, hips, pelvis, and shoulders.

Webster Technique

A specialized chiropractic technique designed to improve pelvic alignment and reduce tension affecting the uterus and surrounding ligaments.

Stretching and strengthening exercises

Exercises designed to support the body during pregnancy and promote postpartum recovery.

Postural and ergonomic advice

Guidance on breastfeeding positions, lifting techniques, and daily activities to reduce strain.

Collaborative care

Referral to other healthcare providers when appropriate to support comprehensive maternal care.

The Webster Technique

Dr. Kirsten Thomas received her Webster Technique certification in 2003.

The Webster Technique is a specialized chiropractic analysis and adjustment focused on improving pelvic alignment and reducing tension in the pelvis and surrounding ligaments.

By helping balance the pelvis, the Webster Technique may reduce intra-uterine constraint and support optimal positioning for the baby.

The technique is widely recommended by the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) for use during pregnancy.

Benefits of post-natal chiropractic care

After delivery, the body must recover from the physical stresses of pregnancy and childbirth.

Post-natal chiropractic care can help:

– restore spinal and pelvic alignment

– reduce neck, shoulder, and back pain

– improve posture during breastfeeding and baby care

– support recovery of abdominal and pelvic muscles

– reduce muscular tension from lifting and carrying a baby

– improve overall mobility and comfort

Complementary therapies for pregnancy and postpartum recovery

At in balance chiropractic + acupuncture clinic, chiropractic care is often combined with complementary therapies to support the overall health of both mother and baby.

These may include referrals for:

Massage therapy

Helps reduce muscular tension, improve circulation, and promote relaxation.

Pelvic floor physiotherapy

Strengthens and rehabilitates pelvic floor muscles before and after childbirth.

Naturopathy

Supports hormonal balance, energy levels, and nutritional needs during pregnancy and postpartum recovery.

Moxibustion

A traditional Chinese therapy sometimes used to assist with breech baby repositioning.

Osteopathic treatment

Manual therapy focused on improving overall body function and mobility.

Dr. Kirsten Thomas: experience in pre- and post-natal chiropractic care in Markham

Dr. Kirsten Thomas has extensive training and experience in treating pregnant women, new mothers, and infants.

In 2004, she completed a one-year fellowship program through the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association, focusing on pre- and post-natal chiropractic care and pediatric chiropractic.

Since then, she has continued to pursue advanced training to ensure her patients receive the most up-to-date, evidence-based care.

As a mother herself, Dr. Thomas understands the physical demands of pregnancy and parenthood. Her clinical experience and personal perspective allow her to provide compassionate, individualized care tailored to the needs of each patient.

When should you see a pregnancy chiropractor?

Many women wonder when it’s the right time to start chiropractic care during pregnancy. The good news is that chiropractic treatment is safe and beneficial at any stage of pregnancy—from the first trimester to the final weeks before delivery.

You should consider seeing a chiropractor if you experience:

– low back pain or hip discomfort caused by the growing belly

– sciatica or leg pain that radiates from the lower back or pelvis

– pelvic or pubic pain (SPD/pelvic girdle pain) affecting walking, standing, or daily activities

– neck, shoulder, or rib pain from posture changes or breastfeeding positions

– wrist, hand, or forearm pain due to fluid retention or repetitive lifting of the baby

– difficulty maintaining posture or mobility due to ligament laxity and hormonal changes

Other reasons to schedule care:

– preparing your body for a smoother delivery: chiropractic care, including the Webster Technique, can help optimize pelvic alignment and reduce tension in the uterus and ligaments.

– supporting postpartum recovery: regular prenatal adjustments can make the transition to postnatal care faster and more comfortable.

– preventing discomfort before it starts: even if you’re not experiencing pain, proactive chiropractic care can help maintain spinal and pelvic balance throughout pregnancy.

How often should you see a pre-natal chiropractor?

The frequency of care depends on your unique needs, stage of pregnancy, and any existing discomfort. Some women benefit from weekly visits, while others may only need adjustments every 2–4 weeks. Dr. Kirsten Thomas creates personalized treatment plans for each patient to ensure safe, effective care throughout pregnancy and postpartum recovery.

FAQs about chiropractic care during pregnancy

Is chiropractic treatment safe during pregnancy?

Yes. Chiropractors trained in pregnancy care use specialized techniques that are safe and gentle for both mother and baby. Pregnancy-specific tables and pillows allow comfortable positioning during treatment.

When should I start chiropractic care during pregnancy?

Chiropractic care can begin at any stage of pregnancy. Many women benefit from starting early to help maintain pelvic balance and reduce discomfort as the pregnancy progresses.

Can chiropractic care help with breech babies?

The Webster Technique may help improve pelvic alignment and reduce uterine tension, which can sometimes support optimal fetal positioning. However, chiropractors do not manually turn babies.

Is chiropractic care helpful after delivery?

Yes. Post-natal chiropractic care can help restore spinal alignment, reduce muscular tension, and support recovery from the physical demands of childbirth and caring for a newborn.

Pre- and post-natal chiropractic care in Markham

If you are experiencing discomfort during pregnancy or recovering after childbirth, chiropractic care can help you move, feel and function better.  

At in balance chiropractic + acupuncture clinic in Markham, Dr. Kirsten Thomas provides personalized pre- and post-natal chiropractic treatment designed to support mothers through every stage.

Book your appointment today and feel the difference supportive, experienced care can make during pregnancy and beyond.

Adult

Initial Visit – Your Starting Point

Both options include a full, detailed chiropractic assessment and report of findings.

1) Comprehensive Assessment

$200.00

Please schedule a 60-minute assessment if you have more than one area of concern or if you would like to add a treatment on the first visit (time permitting).

2) Basic Assessment Only

$170.00

Please schedule a 45-minute assessment if you only have one area of concern or if you would like an assessment only.

Subsequent Visits – After you have had an initial visit

1) Adjustment Only

$ 60     (5-10 minutes)

Express adjustments to get you moving better and on your way.

2) Premium Chiropractic Treatment

$130     (30 minutes)
$  70     (15 minutes)

Our award-winning treatment option!

May include chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapy (ART, fascial abrasion, cupping), Webster technique, exercise rehabilitation, kinesiology taping or lifestyle counseling and re-assessments.