benefits of chiropractic care while pregnant
Do you want to know why many expectant mothers go to chiropractors?
Because of the relief most pregnant women receive from an adjustment, they know that they will be made more comfortable by their doctor. The pain in their back, hips, legs and feet will be eased.
Chiropractors have long had pregnant women as patients. These women know that there are many ways to ease their pain. They might use relaxation techniques, herbs, massage, and chiropractic adjustments to bring about relief. It depends on the type of pain – especially low back pain – and what the patient feels is best for her pregnancy.
Relief of low back pain during pregnancy
Low back pain has long been termed the inevitable complication of pregnancy.
Though chiropractic is still sometimes considered an unconventional treatment, many women are learning the benefits of adjustments to ease some of the tightness and pain associated with carrying and birthing a baby.
Alternatives to traditional Western medicine have been on the rise for decades now. Many obstetricians are seeing the benefits of sending their patients to a chiropractor to relieve pain. Patients who want to get an adjustment should speak with their OB to ensure it is best for them and their baby.
The best use of chiropractic, in general, has to do with musculoskeletal problems. In pregnancy, a lot of women have issues that are caused by their uterus being off center.
The most obvious physical changes that are likely to affect the spine will begin to occur during the second trimester. As the uterus grows to accommodate the fetus, the lumbar (lower) curve of the spine will increase to account for the protruding stomach.
The pelvis will also start to shift positions as the normally tough pelvic ligaments soften in preparation for the delivery.
Many women will end up leaning a bit backwards as they stand during pregnancy. This can place a lot of pressure on the pelvis, and sacroiliac joint and ligaments. This causes additional pain.
Other bodily changes and positions
These changes are not isolated to the back and pelvis, but will also affect the knees, ankles and feet. The shifts in the normal position of the back can also affect posture. This could lead to sciatica and edema (water retention) in the ankles and knees.
The second and third trimesters can also present difficulties with finding a comfortable sleeping posture. Current best recommendations are for pregnant women to not sleep on their back or stomach. Instead, they should sleep on their left side.
They should be in a fetal position, with the knees tucked up and a pillow between their legs. Unfortunately, this can be difficult for those who are used to sleeping on their back or stomach, because the hormonal changes with pregnancy can often cause night sweats, making it difficult to sleep.
So how can chiropractic help?
Relieving pain and staying healthy
Some of the other potential benefits of chiropractic care during pregnancy include:
– Maintaining a healthier pregnancy
– Controlling symptoms of nausea
– Reducing the time of labor and delivery
– Relieving back, hip, neck or joint pain
– Preventing a potential cesarean delivery
With a balanced pelvis, babies have a greater chance of moving into the correct position for birth. The potential crisis and worry associated with breech and posterior presentations may be avoided altogether.
Optimal baby positioning at the time of birth also eliminates the potential for a difficult labor and, therefore, results in an easier and safer delivery for both the baby and the mother.
chiropractic treatment is safe for expectant mothers
There are no known contraindications to chiropractic care throughout pregnancy. Chiropractors are trained to work with women who are pregnant. Investing in the fertility and pregnancy wellness of women who are pregnant or trying to conceive is a routine care for most chiropractors.
Some chiropractors also take a specific interest in prenatal and postnatal care and seek additional training. Those that have been trained to work with pregnant women may use tables that adjust for a pregnant woman’s body. They will use techniques that avoid unneeded pressure on the abdomen.
A chiropractor who is trained in the needs of women who are expecting will also provide you with exercises and stretches that are safe to use during pregnancy.
Take care of your body and it will take care of you.
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To schedule an appointment for treatment with chiropractic, acupuncture or massage, please contact Shimer Chiropractic today at 720-340-4107. Your body will thank you.
Your body will thank you
Schedule your first visit and adjustment for only $69.
