Postpartum Recovery Chiropractic Care in Grand Rapids

Reviewed by Dr. Ryan Davis, DC, Davis Chiropractic Health & Wellness, Grand Rapids, MN · Last reviewed October 2026

Your body spent nine months changing to grow your baby, then went through delivery, and now you’re lifting, rocking, feeding, and carrying all day on very little sleep. Back pain, pelvic pain, a sore neck, and achy wrists are common after having a baby, but you don’t have to just push through them. We look for the cause of the problem instead of just covering up the symptoms.

NEW PATIENTS

Why New Moms Hurt

During pregnancy, the hormone relaxin loosens the ligaments around your pelvis, and your posture shifts to carry the extra weight in front. Those changes don’t reverse overnight. Your core is still recovering, and the joints are still settling back into place right when you start doing more bending, lifting, and feeding than ever before. That combination puts a lot of strain on the low back, pelvis, neck, and upper back.

Common Postpartum Aches and Pains

• Low back pain: from a weakened core, bending over the crib, and lifting the car seat
• Pelvic and SI joint pain: pain at the back of the pelvis, hips, or tailbone, or in the front at the pubic bone
• Neck and upper back pain: from looking down while feeding, rounded shoulders, and carrying on one side
• Wrist and thumb pain: sometimes called “mommy thumb,” from lifting and supporting your baby’s head
• Headaches: from neck tension, poor sleep, and stress
• Hip pain: from carrying your baby on one hip day after day

How We Find the Source

We start with your history: your pregnancy, your delivery, and how you’re feeding, carrying, and sleeping now. Then we check the spine, pelvis, and hips for motion and alignment, look at your posture, and test the areas that hurt. We’ll also ask about core and pelvic floor symptoms so we can point you to a pelvic floor physical therapist if that would help.

How Chiropractic Care May Help

Gentle care can help your pelvis and spine move well again while your body heals, so everyday mom tasks are less painful. Depending on what we find, your plan may include:

• Gentle adjustments to the spine and pelvis
• Gentle instrument adjusting for a low-force option
• Massage therapy for a tight neck, shoulders, and low back
• Laser therapy for sore wrists, thumbs, and joints
• Simple core and pelvic stability exercises to start rebuilding strength
• Feeding, carrying, and car seat positioning tips to take strain off your body

Nutritional Support for Recovery

Pregnancy, delivery, and nursing all take a lot out of your body. Eating well, staying hydrated, and replacing key nutrients can help your energy and recovery. We offer Nutrition Response Testing to guide a personalized whole-food supplement plan. If you’re nursing, we’ll make sure any recommendations fit that.

Care for the Whole Family

We see moms through pregnancy and beyond. Learn more on our pregnancy chiropractic page. We also offer very gentle care for babies and kids on our pediatric chiropractic page. Your baby is always welcome at your visit.

When to Get Emergency Care

Call 911 or go to the ER right away if you have heavy bleeding, chest pain or shortness of breath, a severe headache or vision changes, a seizure, or thoughts of harming yourself or your baby. Call your OB or midwife right away for a fever, a red, swollen, or painful incision, or a calf that is swollen, warm, and red. If you’re feeling down, anxious, or overwhelmed for more than a couple of weeks, talk with your doctor. You don’t have to handle it alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon after delivery can I see a chiropractor?

Many moms come in within a few weeks of delivery, once their OB or midwife says they’re ready. After a C-section, we’ll wait until your incision has healed and your provider has cleared you, and we’ll adjust our techniques to keep you comfortable.

Is chiropractic care safe while I’m breastfeeding?

Yes. Adjustments, massage, and laser don’t affect breastfeeding. If we recommend supplements, we’ll make sure they’re appropriate while you’re nursing.

Can I bring my baby to my appointment?

Absolutely. Babies are always welcome, and we’ll work around feedings and naps.

Can chiropractic help with diastasis recti or pelvic floor issues?

We can help with the back and pelvic pain that often comes with them and give you safe core exercises. For pelvic floor problems like leaking or heaviness, we’ll refer you to a pelvic floor physical therapist and work alongside them.

Do I need a referral?

No. You can see a chiropractor in Minnesota without a referral. Some insurance plans have their own rules, and our front desk can help you check your benefits.

Davis Chiropractic Health & Wellness, P.A. · Grand Rapids, MN · (218) 326-1804