Pubic Symphysis Pain during Pregnancy: How Your Chiropractor Can Help
April 18, 2025
Written by Dr. Olivia Steinmetz, DC, MS, CCSP
What exactly is Pubic Symphysis Dysfunction (PSD)?
The pubic symphysis is a unique joint located at the center of the pelvis, connecting the right and left sides through a flexible cartilaginous connection. It plays an important role in pelvic stability and shock absorption.
During pregnancy, hormones such as relaxin and progesterone prepare the body for childbirth by increasing this joint space – on average, the pubic symphysis increases in width by 2-3 centimeters! This may not seem like much, but this increase in motion can lead to a sense of instability in the pubic symphysis, creating inflammation and pain as the body adapts.
The Not-So-Fun Symptoms of Pubic Symphysis Pain:
An estimated 20-30% of the pregnant population is impacted by PSD. Although everyone’s experience with pubic pain is unique, here some common signs and symptoms:
- Pain around your pubic bone (one or both sides)
- Lower back aches and pains
- Inner thigh tightness or discomfort
- Clicking sensations in the hips, pelvis, or pubic region
- Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or rolling in bed
- Pain with single leg or balance exercises
- Challenges moving from sitting to standing
Remember, having some or all of these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean you have pubic symphysis dysfunction – check in with a licensed health care provider about any sort of pubic pain during pregnancy. Our chiropractors and physical therapists at Well Set are certified in pre- and postnatal care, and are ready to support all your pregnancy needs!
Management and Support:
The good news – chiropractors and physical therapists with certifications and experience in treating pregnancy related conditions such as PSD can help (Yay, Well Set)! Everyone’s treatment will look a little different, but will include a combination of joint mobilization, soft tissue release, targeted stretches and strengthening exercises, and a personalized at-home care plan.
Joints in the sacrum, hips, lumbar spine, and pelvis can be adjusted to reduce strain on the pubic symphysis joint, improve range of motion, and improve overall pelvis biomechanics. Muscle and ligament release can be performed to decrease muscle spasm and tension, and targeted exercises should be completed to enhance pelvic stability. Key muscles include your gluteal muscles, adductor (inner thigh) muscles, low back muscles, and abdominal muscles. Deeper pelvic floor muscle involvement will be co-managed and addressed by a pelvic floor physical therapist (like Dr. Aly at Well Set)!
More than the adjustment: Tools for at home care for Pubic Symphysis Pain.
- Invest in an SI Belt for extra support
- Use a lacrosse ball for self-massage of adductor and pelvic floor muscles
- Stretch your glutes, hips, and lower back (learn how below!)
- Wear supportive shoes
- Sleep with a pillow between your legs
- Modify single-leg exercises during pregnancy
Pubic symphysis pain, while challenging, can be effectively managed with professional guidance and informed self-care. Each pregnancy experience is unique, and working closely with healthcare providers ensures personalized support throughout this transformative period.
*Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Every pregnancy is different, and individual circumstances vary. Always consult with a licensed medical provider to discuss your specific health needs, exercise recommendations, and potential risks during pregnancy.