Despite the high prevalence of musculoskeletal pain during pregnancy, few women in
underserved populations receive treatment for their low back pain. Moreover, researchers
found that pain in a previous pregnancy may predict a high risk for musculoskeletal
complaints in future pregnancies. 85 percent of women who experienced pain in a previous
pregnancy reported pain during their current pregnancy.

According to Clayton Skaggs, DC, the study’s chief author, 85 percent of women surveyed
reported that they had not received treatment for their musculoskeletal pain, and of the
small percentage who perceived that their back complaints were addressed, less than 10
percent were satisfied with the symptom relief they obtained.

“Based on the findings of this study, doctors of chiropractic and other health care
professionals need to expand the musculoskeletal care available during pregnancy,
especially in underserved populations,” Dr. Skaggs said. “As a proactive step, health
professionals should consider including back pain screening as part of early obstetrical care
to help identify musculoskeletal risk factors and allow for early education and/or
treatment.”

The study findings suggest that pregnant women with back pain are predisposed to sleep
disturbances. In the survey, close to 80 percent of women reporting sleep disturbances had
back pain, whereas only 8 percent of women without pain reported problems sleeping.

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