Back pain in pregnancy

Back pain in pregnancy is very common and can affect your daily life considerably. As an osteopath in Amsterdam, I help you in a safe and natural way to address the cause of these complaints and bring your body back into balance.

During pregnancy, a lot changes in a short period of time. Your posture adjusts, your belly grows, and the pressure on your spine and pelvis increases. Not surprisingly, many women experience back pain during pregnancy – often from the second trimester, sometimes even earlier.

What causes back pain in pregnancy?

There are several factors that contribute to back pain in pregnancy. The changing center of gravity often causes you to hunch back more, requiring your back muscles to work harder to stabilize your posture. At the same time, hormones such as relaxin make your ligaments more flexible, reducing stability in your pelvis and spine.

Previous injuries, prolonged sitting, overuse or little movement can also exacerbate back pain. As an osteopath, I examine where your body has gone out of balance and use gentle techniques to reduce tension and encourage normal mobility.

What does an osteopath do for back pain in pregnancy?

In my practice, I look not only at your back, but at the whole body. Back pain in pregnancy often involves multiple structures: the pelvis, spine, abdominal organs, breathing and even the position of the diaphragm. When one of these systems is limited in its function, it can put extra strain on other areas.

With my hands I examine the mobility of these structures and treat where necessary. The techniques are tailored to the stage of your pregnancy and are safe for you and your baby. The intention is that after the treatment there will be relaxation and increased freedom of movement.

Common complaints I see

In my practice in Amsterdam, I regularly see pregnant women with:

  • Low back pain or pain between the shoulder blades
  • Pelvic instability or radiating pain to the legs
  • Pain with prolonged sitting, standing or turning in bed
  • Rib or respiratory complaints due to tension in the torso
  • Sleep problems or fatigue due to persistent back pain

These pregnancy back problems can affect your daily functioning considerably. However, you don’t have to keep on putting up with it – often relief is possible with an osteopathic approach.

What can you expect from the treatment?

During the first consultation we discuss your symptoms and pregnancy history. Then I examine your posture, breathing and the mobility of your back and pelvis. The treatment takes place in comfortable positions such as sitting or lying on your side.

The techniques are gentle, targeted and tailored to your body. After one or more treatments, many women experience relief from pain, more freedom of movement and a better night’s sleep. I can also give you advice on posture or movement that you can apply yourself.

What can you do for your back pain in pregnancy?

In addition to osteopathic treatment, you can also contribute to relieving your symptoms yourself. Regular exercise, alternating postures and conscious breathing can help reduce tension in the back and pelvis. Consider gentle walks, light exercises on a sit-up ball or prenatal yoga. With back pain in pregnancy, it is important to listen to your body, but also to keep moving within your own limits.

During treatment I will give you specific advice on posture, movement or sleeping position if necessary. Often small adjustments in your daily life are sufficient to prevent overburdening. The goal is for you to regain more control over your symptoms, with the least possible restriction in your daily activities.

Osteopath Amsterdam for back pain in pregnancy

My practice in ‘Amsterdam West’ offers a quiet and personal environment where you can visit with or without a referral. Do you suffer from back pain during pregnancy and are you looking for a natural and effective solution? Then you are most welcome to make an appointment.

Osteopathy often provides relief where other treatments fall short. By looking at the whole – from spine to breathing – I help your body adapt better to pregnancy. This allows you to get through this period with fewer symptoms and more confidence.


Want to know what osteopathy can do for you with back pain in pregnancy? Feel free to contact us or make an appointment.