Infant and Pregnancy Chiropractic Care
What is chiropractic care?
Chiropractic medicine is centered on the relationship between spinal alignment and bodily function. A fundamental principle of chiropractic medicine is the belief in the body's innate ability to heal itself with appropriate assistance. By manually adjusting the spine, chiropractors aim to enhance an individual's well-being without resorting to surgery or medication.
Chiropractors are trained to assess and treat musculoskeletal conditions. Chiropractic care has shown effectiveness in addressing lower back pain, muscle discomfort, and other issues. (2019)
Is chiropractic care safe during pregnancy?
Pregnancy causes biomechanical and physiological changes, affecting musculoskeletal health, quality of life, and even birth outcomes. Research indicates chiropractic care positively impacts families' health across generations, especially during pregnancy and childhood. Special techniques have been developed for pregnant women to address these changes. (2019)
During pregnancy, some common musculoskeletal conditions (2022.) that may benefit from chiropractic treatment include (2021):
Pelvic Misalignment
Round Ligament Pain
Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction
Low Back Pain
Sacroiliac Pain
Sciatic Nerve Pain
What is the Webster Technique?
The Webster Technique is a chiropractic adjustment designed for pregnant women, focused on creating optimal pelvic balance and reducing tension in the muscles and ligaments surrounding the uterus, which may contribute to an improved position for the baby prior to birth.
When the pelvis is in alignment and tension-free, it provides the fetus with additional space to shift and position itself, typically head-down, in preparation for birth.
The Webster Technique, in particular, can be a valuable tool in promoting optimal fetal positioning, potentially reducing the likelihood of complications during childbirth. (2011)
What should I expect during a chiropractic adjustment?
Chiropractors are trained to assess and treat musculoskeletal conditions, including pelvic misalignment. They use gentle, non-invasive techniques to restore proper pelvic alignment and relieve pain.
During a session, the chiropractor may perform adjustments to realign the pelvis. They may also prescribe exercises, stretching, or recommend pelvic supports, such as belts or bands.
Why would my baby need chiropractic care?
Symptoms that babies experience that could benefit from chiropractic care include (2016):
Constipation
Torticollis
Reflux or spitting up
Nursing difficulties
Inconsolable or colicky
Trouble sleeping longer than an hour or half-hour
Asymmetry of the face or flatness of the head
Adjustments are not the same for adults are they are for babies. Examination occurs to assess the baby’s spinal alignment, and any adjustments made are very gentle and do not force the baby into any position whatsoever.
Just a friendly reminder: While we've conducted our research, it's advisable for you to do the same! Compare our sources with your own and remember to apply good judgment at all times.
If you're curious about how chiropractic care can complement your current healthcare regimen, we invite you to book a clarity call with us. While we do not provide chiropractic services, we can discuss how chiropractic care might enhance your overall health and well-being. Our experienced team is here to answer your questions and guide you on a path to better health during this special time. Schedule your call today and explore the potential benefits for you and your little one!
References
Chiropractic medicine. (2019). Retrieved from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/chiropractic-medicine
International Chiropractic Pediatric Association Research. (2019.) Retrieved from https://icpa4kids.com/research/
Fiat, F., Merghes, P. E., Scurtu, A. D., Almajan Guta, B., Dehelean, C. A., Varan, N., & Bernad, E. (2022). The Main Changes in Pregnancy-Therapeutic Approach to Musculoskeletal Pain. Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania), 58(8), 1115. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina58081115
Conner, S. N., Trudell, A. S., & Conner, C. A. (2021). Chiropractic Care for the Pregnant Body. Clinical obstetrics and gynecology, 64(3), 602–610. https://doi.org/10.1097/GRF.0000000000000621
Sullivan, R., & Montgomery, Dr. P. (2011, March 11). The Effects of Chiropractic Care and Managing Pain During Pregnancy and the Labor Process. logan.edu. https://www.logan.edu/mm/files/LRC/Senior-Research/2011-Apr-35.pdf
Oswald, Christopher, et al. (2013) “Optimizing pain relief during pregnancy using manual therapy.” Canadian Family Physician, vol. 59, no. 8.
Hawk, C., Schneider, M. J., Vallone, S., & Hewitt, E. G. (2016). Best practices for chiropractic care of children: A consensus update. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 39(3), 158–168. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmpt.2016.02.015
