Is Chiropractic Care Safe During Pregnancy?
Pregnancy is an incredibly demanding time for your body. As your baby grows, your posture shifts, ligaments loosen in preparation for delivery, and your spine and pelvis adapt to these changes. Although these changes are necessary, they often lead to discomfort in the lower back and possible sciatic-like symptoms.
Many expectant mothers are searching for more natural, holistic ways to manage their discomfort during pregnancy. This often leads to the question: Is chiropractic care safe during pregnancy? Short answer? YES! - when performed by a chiropractor who has the proper training.
Causes of Back Pain During Pregnancy
Several factors can contribute to the discomfort that many pregnant women deal with, including:
Postural changes due to a growing belly
Weight gain increasing pressure on the spine
Hormonal changes which loosen ligaments
Pelvic imbalance creating tension in surrounding areas
Chiropractic care helps by addressing the alignment, muscle tension, and movement patterns of the spine and pelvis.
What is Different About Prenatal Chiropractic Care?
Chiropractors who care for pregnant women have additional training in pregnancy-specific techniques. Many offices (including ours) utilize pregnancy pillows that allow a pregnant patient to lie comfortably on the table without placing pressure on the abdomen. The adjustments are gentle, specific, and individualized for each patient.
What is the Webster Technique?
The Webster Technique is a pregnancy-specific analysis and adjustment of the pelvis and surrounding soft tissue structures. Webster-certified chiropractors utilize this specific technique on their patients. These adjustments can help with:
Low back and/or pelvic pain
Round ligament discomfort
Supporting optimal baby positioning
Potential Benefits of Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy
While every pregnancy is different, many women who are under prenatal chiropractic care report:
Reduced pregnancy-related low back pain and/or sciatica
Improved mobility and posture
Improved sleep
Greater overall comfort
When Should You Start?
Some women start chiropractic care as soon as they find out and some women do not start until they begin to feel some level of discomfort. Chiropractic care can be beneficial throughout all stages of pregnancy, including:
Supporting early posture changes in the first trimester
Reducing back and pelvic pain as the belly grows in the second trimester
Supporting optimal baby positioning in the third trimester
Starting earlier, rather than later, often allows the body to adapt more comfortably as pregnancy progresses.
Dr. Rachel using the Webster Technique to evaluate her pregnant patient
Interested in Chiropractic Care at Radiant Roots?
Dr. Rachel specializes in perinatal, pediatric, and family chiropractic care. If you have any additional questions about chiropractic care during pregnancy or would like to schedule an appointment, we would love to be a part of this exciting time for you.