I love treating pregnant women, as they respond incredibly well to chiropractic care. Being able to make a different in two people’s lives with one adjustment is twice as awesome.
In my time as a chiropractor, I have always had a few pregnant patients and have seen hundreds since starting into to practice. I use the Webster technique, which is found to help with inner uterine constraints, as well as pelvic restrictions that do not allow the developing baby to toss and turn as it does during natural development.
Webster’s Technique for Pregnancy Chiropractic
Webster’s Technique is a specific chiropractic method that focuses on adjusting the pelvis of pregnant women. This technique is aimed at improving the mother’s pelvic alignment and nerve system function, which in turn can enhance the baby’s development and delivery process. Here’s a brief explanation of its components and benefits:
Components of Webster’s Technique
- Pelvic Alignment: The main goal of Webster’s Technique is to correct misalignments in the pelvis. This involves gentle adjustments to the sacrum and surrounding pelvic structures.
- Soft Tissue Work: The technique also includes working on the soft tissues, including the muscles and ligaments around the pelvis. This can help in reducing tension and supporting a more balanced pelvic state.
- Nerve Function Improvement: By aligning the pelvis and relieving tension in surrounding tissues, the technique aims to improve nerve function in the lower spine and pelvic area.
According to the International Chiropractic pediatric Association ( www.ICPA4kids.org ), “The goal of the adjustment is to reduce the effects of sacral subluxation/ SI joint dysfunction. In so doing neuro-biomechanical function in the pelvis is improved. “
Benefits for Pregnancy
As well as reducing pelvic dysfunction, chiropractic adjustment also helps expectant mothers manage back pain, pelvic pain, and sciatica (as my wife had). It also improves the overall wellbeing of the mother as her body goes through so many changes. After delivery, chiropractic can help a new mother adapt to the rapid changes back to her “old self,” which is very important to long-term health and wellness.
- Fetal Positioning: Proper pelvic alignment can help in creating an optimal environment for the baby, potentially reducing the likelihood of breech or posterior presentations.
- Reduced Pain and Discomfort: Many pregnant women experience back pain, pelvic pain, or other discomforts due to the physical changes of pregnancy. Webster’s Technique can help alleviate these symptoms.
- Easier Delivery: An aligned pelvis can facilitate a smoother and potentially less complicated delivery process.
- Overall Wellness: This chiropractic care enhances the mother’s overall well-being, which is beneficial for both the mother and the developing baby.
Here are some great research on pregnancy and chiropractic care.