Chiropractic and pregnancy

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One of the most important times for a woman to be receiving chiropractic care is during pregnancy. From the moment of conception her body goes through a series of remarkable changes. Some are easy to spot: a growing belly, changes in posture and the changes in gait – that characteristic pregnancy “waddle.”

As the pregnant body goes through these changes, the body adapts and accommodates. One of the reasons for lower back pain is a result of the forward shift in the center of gravity. As the belly grows and expands the center of gravity gets shifted forward, as a result the pelvis tilts and the natural curve in the low back increases.

The joints and muscles of the low back and pelvis end up taking on the majority of the load. In an attempt to compensate with this shift the upper back and neck can start to feel tight and stiff as well. Chiropractic care can help to restore proper function to these structures, decreasing pain and allowing you to move with ease.

Chiropractic treatment is both safe and effective for pregnant women. Special pregnancy pillows can be used to support the comfort of the expectant Mom, and manual techniques are modified to accommodate a growing baby. One of these techniques is the Webster Technique, which is a specific chiropractic sacral analysis and diversified adjustment for all weight-bearing individuals. 

In addition to the biomechanical improvements noted above, doctors of Chiropractic can also offer nutrition, ergonomic and exercise advice to help a woman enjoy her pregnancy and avoid some of the common side effects associated with this time. For mothers-to-be looking to maintain a healthy pregnancy, chiropractic can play an integral role in their health care team.