Safe Chiropractic Techniques for Pregnant Women

Pregnancy is a beautiful and life-changing experience, but it also comes with its fair share of physical challenges as women’s bodies undergo incredible changes. From back pain to muscle strain, these changes can sometimes feel overwhelming. 

While many pregnant women turn to traditional methods for relief, gentle, natural options are also available to ease the aches and support the body through this transformative journey. One such option is chiropractic care.

Chiropractic care involves gentle, noninvasive adjustments to relieve pain, improve alignment, and support the body’s changes during this sensitive time. In this blog, we’ll explore the role of chiropractic care and the different chiropractic techniques for pregnant women. 

Signs It’s Time to See a Chiropractor During Pregnancy

The first question that may come to mind is, when should pregnant women see a chiropractor? Consider chiropractic care if you’re dealing with persistent issues such as:

• Lower back pain
• Pelvic discomfort
• Sciatica
• Mobility issues

Early intervention can prevent discomfort from escalating and improve the quality of life for expecting mothers. 

Safe Chiropractic Techniques for Pregnant Women

Is chiropractic care safe for pregnant women? Yes, it is. Licensed chiropractors typically receive pregnancy-related training; some, in our case, specialize in prenatal chiropractic care. Let's take a closer look at some safe and effective techniques used.

Webster Technique

The Webster Technique focuses on gently adjusting the pelvis, reducing stress on the nervous system, and balancing the pelvis, muscles, and ligaments. Reducing tension creates more space for the baby to move into the best position for birth, promoting optimal fetal positioning.

A study found that 82% of babies turned into the correct head-down position (vertex) using the Webster Technique. This further shows the potential of the chiropractic technique for pregnant women experiencing pelvic pain.

Gentle Spinal Adjustments

Chiropractors diagnose and correct spinal misalignments using manual adjustments to the spine, joints, and muscles. With pregnant women, they use gentler techniques without pressure on the abdomen to safely and comfortably relieve pain.

Pelvic Blocking Techniques

Pelvic blocking uses cushioned wedges under each side of the pelvis while the patient lies down, drawing the disc away from the affected nerve. This technique is highly beneficial for treating herniated discs, providing pregnancy back pain relief, correcting misalignments, and improving pelvic stability. 

Activator Technique

Spinal misalignments can interfere with the nervous system, which controls many body functions and is especially important during pregnancy. In the Activator technique, chiropractors use a handheld device to deliver a gentle, controlled impulse to the spine. This way, it restores proper movement in dysfunctional areas without twisting or turning the body.

Soft Tissue Therapies

Pregnant women experiencing muscle discomfort can greatly benefit from soft therapy techniques. These techniques involve massage therapy and myofascial release, which relieve muscle tension, improve circulation, and alleviate head, back, and pelvic pain.

The Benefits of Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy

Here’s why chiropractic care presents a great option for expectant mothers.

Alleviation of Common Pregnancy Discomforts

Chiropractic adjustments realign the spine and pelvis, reducing nerve pressure, inflammation, and muscle tension. A study from the Journal of Osteopathic Medicine revealed that many pregnant women with lower back or pelvic pain experience noticeable improvement with chiropractic treatment, lasting up to a year.

Improved Pelvic Alignment

Maintaining proper pelvic alignment during pregnancy creates enough space for the baby to grow and align in the best position for labor. With chiropractic care, pregnant women can reduce pressure on the uterus and surrounding ligaments, preventing discomfort and improving pelvic function.

Enhanced Nervous System Function

The nervous system controls and coordinates bodily functions, including those related to the uterus, hormones, and labor. Chiropractic care reduces nerve stress in this system, which helps maintain proper communication between the brain and body, supporting a healthy pregnancy.

Potential for Shorter and Easier Labor

Prolonged labor is one of the biggest challenges in pregnancy, as it can be physically and emotionally demanding. The good news is that chiropractic for pregnancy pain may help ease this process. 

For example, this narrative review found that women who see a chiropractor during pregnancy tend to have shorter labors. First-time mothers have 25% shorter labor on average, while women with previous births experience about 31% shorter labor. These show chiropractic care’s potential benefits for shorter and less intense labor.

The Importance of Choosing a Chiropractor Specializing in Prenatal Care

Prenatal chiropractic care uses specialized techniques tailored to the unique needs of expectant mothers, ensuring safer and more effective treatment. Prenatal chiropractors use special tools that help support the body while maintaining proper alignment, allowing for effective adjustments without putting pressure on the abdomen. 

Each pregnancy is unique, so personalized care is essential. Prenatal chiropractors can provide a more thorough assessment before starting any treatment, ensuring the mother's and baby's safety and well-being.

Takeaway

Pregnancy is a delicate journey. It's essential to seek options supporting your body's natural abilities to function. Chiropractic techniques for pregnant women are one of these options, taking a gentle, specialized approach to ensure a healthy pregnancy.

At North East Chiropractic Center, our skilled prenatal chiropractors are committed to providing safe, gentle care tailored to support you during pregnancy. You and your baby are at the core of our practice, prioritizing comfort, safety, and well-being in every session.

You deserve the best care possible. Book a consultation with us today and experience the benefits of chiropractic care firsthand.