Chiropractic & Pregnancy
A question often asked of chiropractors:-
Is it ok to have chiropractic care during pregnancy?
The answer is a – YES, (but each case is different)
Pregnancy Chiropractor Care
Spinal adjustments are especially gentle during pregnancy, as far less force is required to correct subluxations (spinal joint restrictions). This is due to the increase in hormones causing significant muscle and ligamentous relaxation.
More than 50% of women experience back pain during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester. Because of the additional weight and a change in posture, there is an increase in stress on the framework of the body.
Chiropractic adjustments do not harm the pregnant mother or her unborn child. In fact, maintaining a healthy spine and nervous system throughout pregnancy can prevent further problems that might occur during and following childbirth.
Once pregnant, some women feel they must stop their chiropractic care. This does not need to be the case. Gentle adjustments can still be given to help the spine and pelvis, especially to elevate pain and discomfort. In fact chiropractic care is a valuable component to help reduce symptoms of spine and pelvis problems and can be used throughout the pregnancy.
After the baby is born, chiropractic care ensures that normal spine and pelvic bio-mechanics are restored and that pre-pregnant musculoskeletal status is achieved.
Common questions about Pregnancy and Chiropactor care
Is there a time during pregnancy when spinal adjustments should stop?
Each case is different and needs to be assess to make sure we are helping the spine and pelvic bio-mechanics. In most cases many of our patients even receive chiropractic care up to and during labour to help reduce pain and symptoms from their pregnancy.
Should I see a chiropractor only if I have experienced pain whilst pregnant?
Remember, your body is changing in many ways and that can place a great deal of stress on your spine and nervous system. Some people will be more effected than others. But pain is normally the last thing that comes on in most people. For a lot of people there can be small changes in their function, or what they can and can’t do before pain comes on. We are there to help the spine and pelvic bio-mechanics function and work, so we can reduce pain and symptoms.
Why hasn’t my obstetrician recommended chiropractic?
A common myth exists amongst the obstetrical community that chiropractic has no role to play during a pregnancy. As a result, over the years many women have endured unnecessary suffering during their pregnancies and subsequent births.
The truth of the matter is that once an obstetrician truly understands the potential of chiropractic in maintaining optimal health of the expectant mother they often become very supportive of chiropractic care for their patients. In fact a number of our patients visit our clinic as a result of direct referrals from their obstetrician and or midwife.
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