It is surprising to many people that prenatal chiropractic care is not only possible, but it can be very beneficial too. The pregnant body undergoes significant and rapid change. Many women experience back and hip pain.
Chiropractic care can also reduce seemingly unrelated symptoms. Pregnancy is a time of great change, and those changes can bring a lot of discomforts. At the same time, doctors do not recommend many medications because they could pass through the placenta to the fetus.
The Aches And Pains of Pregnancy
At least half of all pregnant women report having back pain during the pregnancy. Weight gain and a shifting center of gravity are only part of the issue. During the pregnancy, the body begins to make the hormone relaxin, which helps to soften the pelvic area so it can flex during birth. This hormone can also cause other joints to soften. This causes discomfort during everyday activities like walking.
One common complaint during pregnancy is sciatica. As the joints soften and the spine comes out of alignment, pressure on the sciatic nerve can cause mild to debilitating pain. Realigning the spine and pelvis can take pressure off the nerve and bring relief.
A Chiropractic Specialty
Chiropractors can use special tables that allow for a growing pregnant belly. They can make adjustments without putting any pressure on the abdominal area.
Many chiropractors seek specialized certifications in prenatal care. They may even be Webster Certified. This is a special certification based on the Webster Technique.
The Webster Technique
Larry Webster founded the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association in 1926. He developed specialized techniques later named after him designed to adjust the pelvis and relieve pressure. But the Webster Technique doesn’t only alleviate pressure for the pregnant person. Many babies remain in breach positions and do not turn vertex. Breech birth can be very difficult and often results in cesarean sections. Performing the Webster Technique has over 80 percent success rate in getting babies to turn head down in time for labor and birth.
More Benefits Of Prenatal Chiropractic Care
- Besides increased comfort and pain relief, many people also experience:
- Reduced nausea.
- Shorter labor and delivery time.
- Reduced rates of cesarean delivery.
- Reduced stress.
When To Pass On Adjustments
Although chiropractic adjustments are very safe for most pregnant women, there are some high-risk conditions that could make some women less than ideal candidates:
- Vaginal bleeding.
- Placental issues like placenta abrupt or placenta previa.
- Toxemia.
- Patients should always discuss a high-risk diagnosis with their doctor and chiropractor before receiving care.
Chiropractic Care For Prenatal Care
Your chiropractor can make safe and effective adjustments to improve comfort during a time of great transition. The experienced staff of Charleston Pain Relief Center in North Charleston, South Carolina, has experience in caring for all patients. To make an appointment for an evaluation, call 843-225-2550.