Lower Back and Pubic Symphysis Pain in Pregnancy: How Acupuncture and K-Tape Can Help
Acupuncture BlogPregnancy changes your body in many ways. For many people, one of the hardest parts is lower back and pubic symphysis pain in pregnancy. This pain can make it hard to walk, stand, or even get out of bed. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to live with it.
At our clinic in Edmonton, we help treat this type of pain with acupuncture and kinesiology taping (K-Tape), a safe, gentle combo that brings relief. Book a free consultation with our clinic and let’s talk about how we can help.
What Is Pubic Symphysis Pain?
Your pelvis is made of two halves, and in the front, they meet at a small joint called the pubic symphysis. During pregnancy, your body releases hormones that help your pelvis loosen and stretch for birth. While this is helpful for delivery, it can also cause pain. The joint becomes less stable. Muscles around it, like your hips and thighs, try to help, but that can cause even more strain. This type of pain is common in the second and third trimesters.
What Does the Pain Feel Like?
People describe the pain in many ways. You may notice:
Sharp or aching pain in the front of your pelvis
Pain that spreads to your hips, groin, lower back, or thighs
Clicking or popping sounds when you move
Trouble walking, turning over, or going up stairs
Pain when getting in or out of a car or bed
This is often called pelvic girdle pain, and it includes lower back and pubic symphysis pain in pregnancy.

How Acupuncture Helps with Lower Back and Pubic Symphysis Pain in Pregnancy
Acupuncture is a safe, drug-free way to treat pain. We use very thin, single-use needles at specific points on the body to ease discomfort and support healing.
Here’s how acupuncture helps with pelvic and lower back pain:
1. Reduces Pain and Swelling
Acupuncture helps calm your nerves and lowers pain signals. It also reduces swelling in sore areas.
2. Loosens Tight Muscles
We focus on muscles like your glutes, thighs, and lower back. Releasing these helps your pelvis move more evenly and reduces pulling on the pubic joint.
3. Improves Blood Flow
Better circulation brings healing nutrients to the area. This helps tissues recover faster.
4. Helps You Feel More Relaxed
Many people feel calm and rested after acupuncture. This helps with stress and muscle tension.
5. Supports Your Whole Body
In traditional Chinese medicine, this kind of pain often connects to how well the kidneys and liver are working. We choose points that help support your whole system, not just the sore spot.
Together, these benefits make acupuncture a gentle and effective way to manage lower back and pubic symphysis pain in pregnancy. It supports your body in healing while helping you stay more comfortable day to day.
Thinking about growing your family in the new year? Learn how to support your hormones and prepare your body for pregnancy.
How K-Tape Works
Kinesiology tape (K-Tape) is a soft, stretchy tape placed on the skin. It gently supports your muscles and joints without stopping your movement. We often use K-Tape with acupuncture in our clinic. It helps your body stay supported between visits. It’s especially helpful for patients who are on their feet a lot.
K-Tape Can:
Support your pelvis and lower back
Take pressure off the pubic joint and SI joints
Help with swelling by improving circulation
Reduce muscle fatigue
Remind your body to keep better posture
We apply the tape based on where your pain is, like your lower back, hips, belly, or thighs. Most people find the tape comfortable and helpful for a few days.
Want to see the research behind K-Tape for pregnancy back pain? Read this 2017 study showing how K-Tape reduced pain more than a placebo. View the study here.
What to Expect During a Visit for Lower Back and Pubic Symphysis Pain in Pregnancy
At Monica Patt Acupuncture, your comfort comes first. Here’s what you can expect during a treatment for lower back and pubic symphysis pain in pregnancy:
We’ll talk about your symptoms and how you’ve been feeling
You’ll rest on your side while we place the acupuncture needles
We may use heat therapy or gentle cupping, if it’s a good fit for you
We’ll apply K-Tape to support your pelvis and back
We’ll give you tips to use at home, like how to sit, sleep, and move
Most people feel better after 2 to 4 treatments. The tape helps keep that relief going between sessions.
Pregnancy doesn’t have to mean constant discomfort. Learn how acupuncture can help you feel more at ease in every trimester.

Is It Safe, and What Does The Research Say?
Yes. Both acupuncture and K-Tape are safe during pregnancy when done by trained professionals. We use gentle techniques made for pregnant bodies. Research also shows that these treatments are both helpful and safe for pregnancy-related pain.
Studies from trusted medical journals show that:
Acupuncture reduces pelvic and back pain during pregnancy
It helps improve movement and comfort
K-Tape helps lower pain and gives gentle support to the body
So while this pain is common, there are real ways to treat it without medication.
Curious about the research? Read this large clinical study showing how acupuncture helped reduce pelvic girdle pain in pregnancy here.
Feel Relief from Lower Back and Pubic Symphysis Pain in Pregnancy
Lower back and pubic symphysis pain in pregnancy can be tough, but you’re not alone. With the proper care, you can feel better and move more easily through your pregnancy.
Let’s talk about the pain you’re feeling, explore what’s causing your discomfort, and create a plan that helps you move through pregnancy with more comfort and ease. Book a consultation at our Edmonton clinic today.
Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Acupuncture and kinesiology taping are safe, natural therapies that may support pelvic alignment, reduce pain, and improve comfort during pregnancy. At Monica Patt Acupuncture, we take a whole-body approach and often work alongside other healthcare providers to support your prenatal care and overall well-being.