Tag: prenatal chiropractic

Prenatal Chiropractic Care in Mountain Home, Idaho: Comfort-Focused Support for Back, Hip & Pelvic Changes

A whole-body approach for a season of big physical change

Pregnancy can be an exciting time—and also a time when your body feels unfamiliar. As your center of gravity shifts and your joints adapt, it’s common to notice low back tension, hip discomfort, pelvic pressure, or rib and mid-back tightness. A prenatal chiropractor focuses on restoring comfortable motion, reducing strain patterns, and supporting function with pregnancy-appropriate techniques—so daily life (sleep, walking, sitting, working) feels more manageable.
At Boise Apex Chiropractic & Wellness, prenatal care is part of a multidisciplinary, whole-body model that can also include physiotherapy-style movement strategies, nutrition support, and massage therapy—tailored to your trimester, symptoms, and goals.

Why pregnancy often triggers back, hip, and pelvic discomfort

Pregnancy-related pain is often mechanical—meaning it’s influenced by posture, joint movement, muscle coordination, and repetitive positions—rather than one single “problem spot.” Many people experience a mix of low back pain and pelvic girdle pain (pain around the sacroiliac joints, pubic symphysis, hips, or deep glute area). This is common during pregnancy and can affect everyday function. (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
Common contributors we look for in prenatal visits
  • Changing posture and load through the spine, pelvis, and hips
  • Reduced tolerance for prolonged sitting/standing (work, driving, errands)
  • Muscle imbalance: tight hip flexors/low back + weaker glutes/core support
  • Sensitivity at the sacroiliac joints or pubic symphysis (pelvic girdle region)
  • Sleep-position strain (especially side-sleeping with insufficient pillow support)

What a prenatal chiropractor typically does (and what we avoid)

Prenatal chiropractic care is usually gentle, comfort-focused, and positioning-aware. Visits may include specific joint mobilization or manipulation modified for pregnancy, soft-tissue work, and home strategies to improve movement quality. Evidence summaries and clinical guidance recognize that manual therapy may be part of care for pregnancy-related low back and pelvic girdle pain, often paired with exercise and education. (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
Often included
  • Pregnancy-safe positioning and support pillows
  • Gentle low back/SI joint and hip work as appropriate
  • Soft-tissue techniques for glutes, QL, adductors, and mid-back
  • Movement coaching (breathing, hip stability, pelvic control)
  • Ergonomic guidance (sleep, car, desk, lifting)
Always individualized / may be avoided
  • Any technique that increases discomfort or feels unstable
  • Positions you can’t tolerate (especially later trimesters)
  • Aggressive approaches when tissue sensitivity is high
  • Anything outside your obstetric provider’s guidance for your pregnancy
Note: Serious adverse events from spinal manipulation during pregnancy appear to be rare, but rigorous pregnancy-specific safety research is limited—so your history, exam findings, and coordination with your prenatal care team matter. (nccih.nih.gov)

Webster Technique: what it is (and what it is not)

You may hear about the Webster Technique on pregnancy forums—often discussed in relation to breech presentation. The most important clarification is that Webster is typically described as a technique aimed at improving pelvic and sacral mechanics and reducing tension patterns; it is not a “breech-turning procedure.” The goal is better balance and comfort, which may support optimal fetal positioning, but it should not be presented as a guaranteed method to turn a baby. (icpa4kids.com)
Question Helpful framing
Is Webster safe? It’s generally discussed as a gentle, pregnancy-modified approach, but safety is always individualized. Your provider should screen for red flags and coordinate with your OB/midwife when needed. (nccih.nih.gov)
Does it “turn breech babies”? It should not be marketed as a breech-turning technique or a guarantee. It’s best understood as pelvic balancing that may support comfort and mechanics. (icpa4kids.com)
When is it used? Often discussed in the late 2nd and 3rd trimester, but care plans depend on symptoms, exam findings, and your prenatal care team’s guidance.

Did you know?

Pelvic girdle pain can be common
Reviews report a wide prevalence range for pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain depending on definitions and measurement methods. (mdpi.com)
Exercise + education matter
Guidelines for pelvic girdle pain emphasize active strategies; manual therapy may be included, but it’s rarely the only ingredient for lasting improvement. (guidelinecentral.com)
Postpartum needs support too
Persistent pelvic girdle pain can occur postpartum, and clinical guidance supports targeted rehab approaches when symptoms linger. (apta.org)

A practical breakdown: what to expect from a care plan

Every pregnancy is different, but most comfort-centered prenatal care plans follow a simple framework: reduce irritation, improve movement options, then build support so symptoms don’t rebound as quickly.
1) Relief phase
Focus: calm the “hot spots” (SI joint irritation, glute tightness, mid-back restriction), improve sleep positions, and modify daily triggers like long car rides or standing in one place.
2) Corrective/support phase
Focus: gentle strength + stability. Think glute activation, hip control, breathing mechanics, and light mobility—so the pelvis is less reactive when you walk, climb stairs, or roll in bed.
3) Wellness/maintenance phase
Focus: keeping you comfortable as your body continues changing. Visit frequency often adjusts with trimester demands, activity level, and symptom stability.
If your symptoms include progressive neurological changes (new weakness, numbness, bowel/bladder changes), significant trauma, fever, or severe unrelenting pain, seek urgent medical guidance.

Local angle: prenatal comfort support for Mountain Home families

In Mountain Home, many expecting parents balance long drives, active jobs, and busy family schedules. Two practical, local-life triggers we frequently hear about are:

  • Commute strain: Prolonged sitting (especially in the car) can load the hips and SI joints. Small changes—seat angle, lumbar support, and planned stretch breaks—can make a noticeable difference.
  • Standing on hard surfaces: Workdays that involve standing (or frequent stop-and-go walking) can flare pelvic girdle discomfort. Targeted hip stability plus supportive footwear strategies are often helpful.
If you’re traveling to Boise for appointments, a team-based clinic can be especially valuable because it allows you to coordinate chiropractic care with massage, physiotherapy-style movement support, and nutrition guidance under one roof—reducing the “bounce” between providers and giving you a clearer plan.

Ready to talk with a prenatal chiropractor?

If you’re dealing with pregnancy-related back pain, hip tightness, or pelvic discomfort, a personalized plan can help you move and rest with more confidence. We’ll meet you where you are—whether you want relief now, better function for the weeks ahead, or a plan that supports you into postpartum.
Schedule a Prenatal Visit

Prefer to start with questions? Ask about pregnancy-safe positioning, visit frequency, and how we coordinate with your OB/midwife.

FAQ: Prenatal chiropractic care

Is prenatal chiropractic care safe?
Care is typically modified for pregnancy and can be gentle and comfort-focused. Large-scale pregnancy-specific safety data is limited, and serious adverse events appear to be rare, which is why screening, appropriate technique selection, and coordination with your prenatal provider are important. (nccih.nih.gov)
What symptoms bring pregnant patients in most often?
Common concerns include low back pain, sacroiliac (SI) discomfort, hip tightness, pelvic girdle pain, mid-back/rib tightness, and difficulty sleeping comfortably. Pregnancy and postpartum musculoskeletal issues are well-recognized, and pelvic girdle pain in particular can impact daily function. (aptapelvichealth.org)
Can a prenatal chiropractor help with pelvic girdle pain?
Many care plans combine manual therapy with exercise and education. Clinical guidelines suggest manual therapy may or may not be used depending on the individual, while active strategies remain central for many patients. (guidelinecentral.com)
Does the Webster Technique turn breech babies?
Webster is best understood as a pelvic-balancing approach; it should not be positioned as a guaranteed method to turn a breech baby. If breech presentation is a concern, your OB/midwife is the right lead for medical decision-making, and any supportive care should be coordinated. (icpa4kids.com)
When should I ask my OB/midwife before starting chiropractic care?
If you have a high-risk pregnancy, vaginal bleeding, signs of preterm labor, significant swelling with concerning symptoms, severe headache/vision changes, or any new neurological symptoms (progressive numbness/weakness), get medical guidance first. For many uncomplicated pregnancies, it’s still wise to keep your prenatal provider informed.

Glossary (quick definitions)

Pelvic girdle pain (PGP): Pain around the pelvis (often SI joints, pubic symphysis, buttocks, hips, or groin) that can worsen with walking, stairs, or rolling in bed. (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
Sacroiliac (SI) joint: The joints where the pelvis connects to the spine; they can become sensitive when load and movement demands change.
Manual therapy: Hands-on care that may include mobilization, manipulation, and soft-tissue techniques, often paired with exercise and education for better results. (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
Webster Technique: A chiropractic sacral/pelvic analysis and adjustment approach often discussed in pregnancy; it’s commonly framed as pelvic balancing rather than a guaranteed breech-turning method. (icpa4kids.com)

Prenatal Chiropractor in Meridian, ID: What to Expect, What’s Safe, and How to Get Real Relief During Pregnancy

A whole-body, pregnancy-aware approach to comfort, movement, and confidence

Pregnancy changes how your body moves, carries weight, sleeps, and recovers. For many people in Meridian and the Treasure Valley, those changes show up as low back pain, hip discomfort, pelvic pressure, rib tightness, or “everything feels off” posture. A prenatal chiropractor focuses on gentle, pregnancy-appropriate care that supports mobility and comfort—while respecting the unique clinical considerations of each trimester and working alongside your obstetric provider’s guidance. Back pain during pregnancy is common, and reputable medical guidance recommends contacting your OB provider if pain is severe or persists. (acog.org)

Why pregnancy can trigger back, hip, and pelvic pain

During pregnancy, your center of gravity shifts forward, your abdominal wall and pelvic floor adapt to new loads, and your joints and soft tissues respond to hormonal changes. These combined factors can increase strain on the low back, hips, and pelvic region—especially when you’re sitting for long periods, walking longer distances, lifting toddlers, or sleeping in positions that don’t feel supportive. (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

Research continues to show that low back pain in pregnancy is widespread (many sources estimate roughly half or more of pregnant people experience it), which is why a plan that blends movement guidance, soft-tissue care, and conservative manual therapy can matter. (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

What a prenatal chiropractor visit should look like (and what it shouldn’t)

A prenatal-appropriate evaluation

A thoughtful prenatal visit starts with health history, pregnancy stage, current symptoms, activity/sleep patterns, and “red flags” screening. Your chiropractor should also encourage coordination with your obstetric provider—especially if symptoms are new, intense, or unusual. If back pain is severe or lasts more than a couple of weeks, ACOG recommends calling your obstetric care provider. (acog.org)

Gentle positioning and pregnancy-aware techniques

Prenatal chiropractic care commonly uses modified positions (support pillows, side-lying, or pregnancy-capable tables) and conservative force choices. The goal is to improve joint motion and reduce irritation—without stressing the abdomen or placing you in uncomfortable positions.

Clear communication and “stop if anything feels wrong” boundaries

You should always feel invited to ask questions, request modifications, or stop care. A prenatal plan should feel supportive and personalized—not one-size-fits-all.

A practical comparison: common pregnancy discomfort patterns and conservative care options

What you feel Common contributors in pregnancy Conservative support that may help When to call your OB provider
Low back ache or stiffness Posture shift, load changes, tissue sensitivity Gentle joint mobilization/adjustment, hip mobility, trunk stability, walking modifications Severe pain or lasting >2 weeks; any concerning symptoms
Pelvic girdle discomfort (SI, pubic area, deep hip) Pelvic load transfer changes; soft-tissue tension Stabilization guidance, step mechanics, glute/hip support work, belt recommendations when appropriate If pain escalates rapidly, affects walking significantly, or is paired with other concerning signs
Mid-back/rib tightness (especially later pregnancy) Ribcage expansion, breathing mechanics, posture Thoracic mobility, gentle soft-tissue work, breathing and desk setup coaching Any chest pain, shortness of breath, or symptoms that feel urgent

Note: This table is educational, not a diagnosis. If symptoms are severe, persistent, or worrisome, contact your obstetric provider. (acog.org)

Step-by-step: how to choose the right prenatal chiropractor in Meridian

1) Ask what “prenatal” means in their office

Look for an answer that includes pregnancy-appropriate positioning, gentle technique options, and a plan that changes across trimesters—not just “we adjust everyone the same way.”

2) Confirm they welcome collaboration with your OB/midwife

Pregnancy care works best as team-based care. A provider who respects your prenatal plan, listens to your medical history, and encourages appropriate referrals is a good sign. (acog.org)

3) Ask about soft-tissue and movement support

Many pregnancy complaints improve when manual care is paired with small, consistent movement changes: walking mechanics, hip stability, glute activation, breathing, and sleep positioning.

4) Be cautious with bold claims about “turning” babies

You may hear about the “Webster Technique.” Some sources describe it as a chiropractic approach focused on pelvic mechanics during pregnancy; it is often discussed online in the context of breech positioning. It’s reasonable to ask what the technique involves, what outcomes are being promised (and what are not), and how your chiropractor coordinates with your obstetric provider for breech management decisions. (healthline.com)

Did you know? Quick pregnancy comfort facts

Back pain is extremely common in pregnancy. Estimates commonly range from about 50% to as high as 80% in some resources. (cedars-sinai.org)

Persistent symptoms can continue postpartum for some people. Research following first-time mothers has reported a subset with ongoing low back and pelvic girdle pain at 6–10 weeks postpartum. (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

It’s worth taking pain seriously. Medical guidance recommends calling your obstetric provider if back pain is severe or persists beyond a couple of weeks. (acog.org)

The local Meridian, Idaho angle: everyday movement that adds up

In Meridian, daily life often includes driving commutes, desk work, and quick transitions between errands, school drop-offs, and outdoor activity. Those patterns can be rough on pregnancy posture—especially if you’re sitting long stretches and then jumping straight into lifting, walking, or standing.

Two small “Meridian-friendly” habits that help many patients

Micro-break rule: if you’re sitting, stand and gently move every 30–45 minutes (a short walk inside your home/office counts).

Car comfort upgrade: use a small lumbar roll or folded towel at your low back and bring the seat slightly forward so you don’t reach for the pedals.

Ready for prenatal support that feels calm, gentle, and personalized?

Boise Apex Chiropractic & Wellness offers a whole-body approach—chiropractic care plus supportive wellness services—so you’re not just chasing symptoms. If you’re searching for a prenatal chiropractor near Meridian, we’ll help you understand what’s driving your discomfort and what options make sense for your stage of pregnancy.

Schedule a Prenatal Chiropractic Visit

Prefer to start with questions? Call or message—our team can help you decide if prenatal chiropractic is a fit.

FAQ: Prenatal chiropractic care in Meridian

Is it common to have back pain during pregnancy?

Yes. Many reputable sources estimate that roughly half (or more) of pregnant people experience back pain at some point. (cedars-sinai.org)

When should I call my OB provider about back pain?

If your back pain is severe or lasts more than two weeks, ACOG recommends contacting your obstetric care provider. If anything feels urgent or unusual, call sooner. (acog.org)

Can chiropractic help with breech positioning?

Some people seek chiropractic care (often discussed as “Webster Technique”) when concerned about breech presentation. It’s important to ask what is being done, what claims are being made, and how your care team coordinates with your obstetric provider for breech management options. (healthline.com)

How soon after delivery can I consider care again?

Timing varies based on delivery, recovery, and medical guidance. Some people still experience low back and pelvic girdle symptoms at 6–10 weeks postpartum, so a personalized plan and coordination with your medical provider matter. (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

Glossary (quick, plain-English)

Pelvic girdle pain (PGP): Discomfort felt around the pelvis (often the SI joints, deep hip/glute, or pubic region) that can occur during pregnancy and sometimes persist postpartum. (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

Center of gravity shift: As the abdomen grows, the body’s balance point moves forward, which can increase mechanical demand on the low back and hips. (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

Webster Technique: A chiropractic approach described in some professional materials as a sacral analysis/adjustment with related soft-tissue work, commonly marketed toward pregnancy-related pelvic mechanics. Ask your provider what it includes and what outcomes are (and are not) expected. (icpa4kids.com)

Prenatal Chiropractor Care in Garden City, Idaho: Comfort, Mobility, and a Whole-Body Plan for Pregnancy Back & Pelvic Pain

A calmer pregnancy starts with a plan—not just “pushing through” the aches.

Pregnancy changes everything: posture, gait, breathing mechanics, sleep position, and how your hips and pelvis share load. For many people, that shows up as low back pain, pelvic girdle pain (pain around the SI joints/pubic symphysis), mid-back tension, and tight hips. Research consistently shows pregnancy-related low back and lumbopelvic pain are common, not rare—and they can affect daily function and sleep. (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

At Boise Apex Chiropractic & Wellness, we take a whole-body approach—combining gentle prenatal chiropractic care with physiotherapy-style movement strategies, soft-tissue work, and nutrition support when needed—so you feel supported through relief, correction, and long-term wellness phases.

What a prenatal chiropractor can help with (and why it happens)

During pregnancy, your center of mass shifts forward, abdominal support changes, and many joints become more mobile. These normal changes can increase strain on the lower back and pelvis—especially when you’re standing, walking, rolling in bed, or doing tasks like lifting laundry baskets or car seats. (acog.org)

A prenatal chiropractor focuses on supporting comfort and movement by addressing:

Low back pain

Often linked to posture changes, muscle fatigue, and altered load through the lumbar spine and hips. (acog.org)
Pelvic girdle pain (PGP)

Pain around the SI joints, tailbone, glutes, or pubic bone—commonly aggravated by walking, stairs, single-leg stance, or turning in bed. (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
Mid-back and rib discomfort

Breathing mechanics and rib mobility change; many people feel tightness between the shoulder blades.
Hip tightness and glute pain

Often related to altered gait mechanics and pelvic stabilization demands.

Important note: pregnancy pain should still be taken seriously. If pain is severe, rapidly worsening, comes with fever, trauma, neurologic symptoms (numbness/weakness), or you have vaginal bleeding or fluid leakage, contact your OB/midwife promptly.

What “prenatal chiropractic care” looks like at a whole-body wellness clinic

Prenatal care should feel safe, tailored, and calm. Visits commonly include a history focused on your trimester, activity level, sleep, and what movements trigger symptoms (stairs, getting out of the car, standing at work, or turning in bed).

From there, your plan may include:

Gentle, pregnancy-appropriate adjustments

Modified positioning and techniques designed for comfort as your body changes.
Physiotherapy-style movement support

Targeted mobility and stabilization drills to reduce irritation and improve load-sharing through the core/hips.
Soft-tissue and massage therapy options

To help manage tight hips, glutes, and mid-back tension that can build up quickly during pregnancy.
Nutrition & recovery support

Hydration, protein, and micronutrient guidance can support tissue recovery and energy—especially when sleep is disrupted.

If you’re already under OB/midwife care, many patients like to keep everyone aligned on what’s being addressed (sleep, activity, work demands, and any restrictions).

Quick comparison: back pain vs. pelvic girdle pain in pregnancy

Pattern Common feel / location Often aggravated by Helpful first steps
Low back pain Achy/tight lumbar spine; may feel “stuck” after sitting Standing long periods, bending, poor sleep posture Posture changes, supportive shoes, gentle mobility, heat as appropriate (acog.org)
Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) Pain near SI joints/glutes, tailbone, or pubic bone; can feel sharp with movement Stairs, rolling in bed, single-leg standing, getting in/out of car Shorter steps, avoid asymmetrical loading, stabilization exercises, consider support belt per guidance (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

Step-by-step: daily habits that reduce pregnancy back & pelvic strain

1) Change how you stand (micro-adjustments matter)

If you lock your knees or “hang” on one hip, your pelvis has to stabilize in a lopsided position. Try: soft knees, ribcage stacked over pelvis, and equal weight on both feet. If you’re at the kitchen counter, place one foot on a low stool and switch sides every few minutes.

2) Use OB-approved basics for back pain

Supportive shoes, mindful posture, and pregnancy support garments can reduce muscle fatigue. OB guidance commonly recommends good arch support and practical support strategies. (acog.org)

3) Make rolling in bed “together” (shoulders + hips)

For pelvic girdle pain, the goal is reducing shearing across the pelvis. Think “log roll”: keep knees together, roll shoulders and hips as one unit, and use your arms to push up.

4) Try gentle pelvic and hip exercises (when cleared)

Many pregnancy-friendly programs emphasize gentle motion and stability for pelvic girdle discomfort. A common starting point is controlled pelvic tilting/rocking and low-intensity hip work—kept pain-free and modified to your trimester. (www2.hse.ie)

5) Break up sitting time

If you sit for work, set a timer: stand, breathe, and walk for 2–3 minutes every 30–45 minutes. Many people notice less end-of-day stiffness with this one change.

A realistic breakdown: when to seek help vs. when to self-manage

Self-management may be enough if:

• Symptoms are mild and improve with posture changes, walking, heat/ice guidance, and gentle movement.
• Pain is predictable and not worsening week to week.
Consider a prenatal chiropractor/physio-style assessment if:

• Turning in bed, walking, or stairs trigger sharp pelvic pain.
• Back pain interrupts sleep or limits daily function (work, childcare, exercise).
• You’ve tried “the basics” and still feel stuck.

Pregnancy-related low back pain is common, but that doesn’t mean you should accept it as your “new normal.” Many people improve with the right combination of support, movement strategies, and hands-on care. (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

Did you know? Quick facts about pregnancy back & pelvic pain

It’s common.

Studies report a wide range, but many estimates place pregnancy low back pain affecting a substantial portion of pregnant people. (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
Pelvic girdle pain can persist postpartum for some.

Some research has found a subset of people still have lumbopelvic symptoms several weeks after delivery. (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
Underreporting is real.

Not everyone with pregnancy back pain seeks care—meaning many people try to “tough it out.” (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

Local angle: prenatal chiropractor support near Garden City, Idaho

Garden City is active by nature—greenbelt walks, standing at community events, commuting, and staying on your feet for work can all add up when your pelvis and core are adapting week by week. If you’re noticing that walking distance is shrinking, stairs are getting spicy, or your sleep position feels impossible, it’s a good time for an individualized prenatal plan.

Boise Apex Chiropractic & Wellness serves the greater Boise area with a multidisciplinary approach—so your care can include chiropractic, movement-based physiotherapy strategies, massage therapy, and nutrition support under one roof.

Ready for a pregnancy comfort plan?

Schedule a visit to discuss your symptoms, trimester, and goals. We’ll map out a gentle, whole-body approach that fits your pregnancy and your day-to-day life in Garden City and the Boise area.
Book an Appointment

Prefer to start with questions? Use the contact page and mention “prenatal chiropractor” so we can route you quickly.

FAQ: Prenatal chiropractic care

Is back pain normal during pregnancy?

It’s common, but “common” doesn’t mean you should suffer through it. OB guidance recognizes pregnancy back pain and offers practical strategies like posture support and footwear choices. (acog.org)
What’s the difference between low back pain and pelvic girdle pain?

Low back pain tends to feel centered in the lumbar spine. Pelvic girdle pain is often felt around the SI joints, glutes, tailbone, or pubic bone and can flare with stairs, walking, or rolling in bed. (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
Can a support belt help pelvic pain?

Some guidelines discuss non-rigid lumbopelvic support belts as an option, often paired with education/exercise advice. Fit and timing matter—ask your provider for personalized guidance. (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
Do I need to stop exercising if I have pelvic girdle pain?

Not necessarily. Many people do best with modified, pregnancy-appropriate movement that stays below the pain threshold and emphasizes stability. If walking worsens symptoms, shorter bouts or alternative options may be recommended. (www2.hse.ie)
When should I talk to my OB/midwife right away?

Seek prompt medical guidance if pain comes with fever, trauma, new numbness/weakness, severe headache/visual changes, vaginal bleeding, fluid leakage, or contractions. For non-urgent but persistent pain that impacts sleep or daily function, an assessment for targeted care is a great next step.

Glossary (helpful terms)

Pelvic girdle pain (PGP): Pain related to the joints and soft tissues of the pelvis (often SI joints and/or pubic symphysis) during pregnancy.
SI joint (sacroiliac joint): The joint where the sacrum meets the ilium (pelvic bones); can be sensitive with load changes in pregnancy.
Lumbopelvic region: The functional area that includes the lumbar spine and pelvis—often treated together because they share load.
Non-rigid lumbopelvic support belt: A flexible support garment designed to reduce strain and improve comfort around the pelvis/low back for some people. (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)