Why should you see a chiropractor for pregnancy?
Chiropractors are known for relief from pain related conditions such as: neck pain, low back pain, sciatica, “pinched nerves”, headaches and disc injuries. However, prenatal chiropractic provides many more benefits for mom and baby. In this article we will discuss the benefits of chiropractic care during pregnancy.
Throughout pregnancy, especially during labor, the pelvis, spine and surrounding muscles must all work in sync. If this does not happen it can result in a difficult birth, stalled labor or fetal malposition. This often results in medical intervention. A Webster certified pregnancy chiropractor is trained to address this imbalance. This treatment involves correction to the muscles, bones and ligaments surrounding the pelvis. The goal is to reduce pelvic imbalance. By addressing several causes of stalled labor, the Webster technique may lead to a safer easier birth outcome and less frequency of fetal malposition.
As your pregnancy progresses posture is force to change. Consciously working on correcting poor posture decreases the risk of developing low back pain during pregnancy. ** Avoid the sway back posture.
Trying to get comfortable while sleeping is another very common concern. Changes in typical sleep positions often result in new aches, pains and lack of sleep. A good night’s sleep is necessary for a healthy pregnancy. Regular chiropractic adjustments during pregnancy improve your ability to sleep comfortably.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy increase ligament laxity (due to the Relaxin hormone).Ligament laxity is necessary for delivery but, it makes your pelvis unstable leading to frequent imbalances. This is because the spine is surrounded by ligaments that connect the vertebrae. As a result, misalignment (aka subluxation) occurs more easily.
The most common reason to see a chiropractor for pregnancy is to help alleviate back pain. Back pain is common because your rib cage is expanding and pelvic motion is increasing. This causes mid-back, rib and low back pain. Prenatal chiropractic adjustments decrease this pain.
One of the most underrated benefits of pregnancy chiropractic is improved nervous system function. Your nervous system sends signals from your spine to your entire body. Prenatal chiropractic adjustments remove the nerve interference caused by misalignments. It is essential to have optimal function to the uterine nerves for labor progression. In some cases, it may even improve bowel irregularity and morning sickness.
Consistent prenatal chiropractic care and postpartum check ups result in a quicker recovery post-partum. Many women develop sprain strain injuries to their pelvis, similar to those of a car accident. Addressing these injuries is essential for long term reduction in post partum related back pain.
There are many techniques that are used to adjust women during pregnancy. They are safe and effective for both mom and baby. At no point during the adjustment do we touch baby.
When you visit your chiropractor, a thorough consultation discussing your medical history and examination will be performed. Please relay any pertinent information between your PCP, obstetrician, midwife, doula and chiropractor.
At Spine by Design we use a specific table that drops down to accommodate for your belly. We also use chiropractic pregnancy pillows for third trimester bellies. These accommodations allow you to lay face down on the table. It is a safe and comfortable way to be adjusted.
For more information about the pregnancy pillow we use visit: https://chiropracticpregnancypillows.com/.
For more information about prenatal and pediatric chiropractic visit: https://icpa4kids.com/training/webster-certification/webster-technique/
Dr. Amanda Courtney D.C.
Spine By Design Chiropractic
3190 Suntree Blvd, Ste 101
Rockledge, FL, 32955
321-622-4501