Have you heard of Rib Pain during pregnancy? learn how prenatal chiropractic care in Costa Mesa, CA can help?

Pregnancy is an incredible journey filled with excitement, anticipation, and physical changes. While many moms-to-be expect common discomforts like back pain and nausea, rib pain during pregnancy often comes as a surprise. If you're experiencing rib pain and shortness of breath, you're not alone. This discomfort is particularly common in the third trimester but can start earlier for some women. Understanding why rib pain occurs and how pregnancy chiropractic care in Costa Mesa, CA can help is essential for finding relief and staying comfortable as your body prepares for birth.

Why Does Rib Pain Occur During Pregnancy?

Several factors contribute to rib pain during pregnancy, ranging from structural changes to hormonal influences:

1. Growing Uterus & Baby's Position

As your baby and uterus grow, they put pressure on the diaphragm and ribs. If your baby is long-limbed or prefers stretching, their arms or legs may press against your ribs, causing discomfort. This is especially common in later pregnancy when space becomes more limited.

2. Posture Changes

Your growing belly shifts your center of gravity forward, which alters your posture. Your lower back curves more (lumbar lordosis), causing your upper back to hunch forward in compensation. This change strains the muscles and ligaments around your ribs. The intercostal muscles, located between the ribs, support breathing and movement, but pregnancy-related postural shifts can place added stress on these muscles and their accompanying nerves, leading to sharp rib pain—especially with deep breaths or certain movements.

3. Hormonal Changes & Relaxin Release

Pregnancy hormones, particularly relaxin, help loosen ligaments and joints in preparation for childbirth. However, relaxin affects all the connective tissues in your body, not just the pelvic area. This means your ribcage can become more flexible and unstable, leading to discomfort—especially with prolonged sitting, standing, or even deep breathing.

4. Pelvic Misalignment & Its Impact on the Ribcage

Your pelvis and ribcage are connected through your spine. When the pelvis is misaligned, it affects the entire body's posture, which can pull on the ribs and create tension. This misalignment contributes to pain, especially when coupled with the normal postural changes of pregnancy.

5. Diaphragm Compression

As your uterus expands, it pushes against the diaphragm, which plays a crucial role in breathing. Increased pressure on the diaphragm can make it harder to take deep breaths and lead to discomfort in the rib area.

How Can Prenatal Chiropractic Care Help With Rib Pain & Shortness of Breath?

The good news is that prenatal chiropractic care in Costa Mesa, CA can effectively relieve rib pain and improve breathing. At Blooming Chiropractic, we specialize in gentle, pregnancy-safe chiropractic techniques to ensure moms feel their best throughout their journey.

1. Spinal & Rib Adjustments

Webster-certified chiropractors use precise, gentle adjustments to correct spinal misalignments, particularly in the upper back, ribs, and pelvis. These adjustments help relieve pressure on nerves and improve mobility, allowing your ribs to function properly and reducing pain.

2. Myofascial Release & Soft Tissue Work

Prenatal chiropractors also address muscle tightness contributing to rib pain. Myofascial release, a gentle hands-on technique, reduces tension in the chest, back, and neck muscles. This can significantly ease rib pain and allow for better breathing.

3. Postural Guidance & Stretches

Many pregnant women unknowingly worsen rib pain with poor posture. A prenatal chiropractor can guide you on better sitting, standing, and sleeping positions to reduce strain on your ribs. Simple modifications—like using a pregnancy pillow for support—can make a huge difference.

4. Pelvic Balancing for Full-Body Alignment

Since a misaligned pelvis can contribute to rib pain, prenatal chiropractic adjustments focus on balancing the pelvis. This helps optimize the baby’s positioning, reduces overall discomfort, and allows the entire body to function more harmoniously.

5. Breathing Techniques to Reduce Rib Pressure

Proper breathing techniques can alleviate diaphragm compression and reduce rib discomfort. Chiropractors often teach deep belly breathing exercises to maximize lung expansion and relieve pressure on the ribs.

Additional Tips for Managing Rib Pain at Home

While pregnancy chiropractic care in Costa Mesa, CA is one of the best ways to relieve rib pain, these at-home strategies can also help:

✔️ Wear Comfortable, Loose Clothing – Tight clothing can worsen rib discomfort by adding unnecessary pressure.

✔️ Try Gentle Stretches – Side stretches and cat-cow movements can provide relief.

✔️ Use a Pregnancy Pillow – Sleeping with a pregnancy pillow offers added support and reduces strain on the ribs.

✔️ Practice Good Posture – Sitting with proper back support helps prevent added rib pressure.

✔️ Apply Heat or Cold Therapy – A warm compress or ice pack can reduce inflammation and pain.

✔️ Modify Sleeping Positions – Lying on your left side with a pillow between your knees can help relieve discomfort.

Serving Expectant Moms in Costa Mesa, Newport Beach & Huntington Beach

At Blooming Chiropractic, we are passionate about helping pregnant women experience a smoother, more comfortable pregnancy. Located in Costa Mesa, CA, we serve expectant moms from Orange County, including Newport Beach and Huntington Beach. Our Webster-certified chiropractic care ensures you and your baby receive the best support throughout your pregnancy journey.

If you’re struggling with rib pain, back pain, or any pregnancy-related discomfort, we’re here to help! Book an appointment today to experience relief and prepare your body for a smoother birth experience.

📞 Call or text us at 657-845-1669 to schedule your appointment or use our online scheduler to book now.