Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy - The Webster Technique
Chiropractic care throughout pregnancy removes interference to the nervous system, enhancing fetal development and uterine function. It also balances the pelvis, eliminating undue tension to muscles and ligaments, enhancing optimal fetal positioning. - Jeanne Ohm
What Exactly Is The Webster Technique?
ICPA gives their definition as, “A specific chiropractic analysis and diversified adjustment for pelvic balance during pregnancy allowing for optimal fetal positioning (head down/anterior) for an easier, safer birth. The goal of the adjustment is to reduce the effects of sacral subluxation and/or SI Joint dysfunction. In so doing, neuro-biomechanical function in the pelvis is improved.”
Throughout pregnancy, the growing body tries to adapt to the weight gain, increase of hormones, and the postural changes that follow. These postural changes increase the risk of sacral/pelvic imbalance at any given time, with or without reason. The bones of the pelvis and the supportive network of ligaments, tendons, muscles, and associated nerves are all under constant pressure and change. The resulting torsion and inflammation of imbalanced muscles and ligaments may then prevent the baby from comfortably assuming the best possible position for their birthing.
McCarron Lake Chiropractic says, “As the baby grows, the center of gravity changes and the back must accommodate for that. This change in the center of gravity, along with the increased weight of pregnancy, can lead to muscles and ligaments that are stretched to the point that they pull the spine out of alignment which can contribute to lower back pain. Chiropractic treatment can put the spine back in proper alignment, which will help the muscles do their job of supporting the lower back and belly.”
Some of the effects of pelvic/sacral misalignment include:
Pain/tightness the legs and groin.
Lower back pain.
Decrease in pelvic diameter/mobility.
Longer labor possibly leading to unwanted interventions
Currently, the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) recommends chiropractic care throughout pregnancy to establish pelvic balance and optimize the room a baby has for development. With a balanced and aligned pelvis, babies have a greater chance of moving into their correct position for birth.
So ideally, the best time to begin The Webster Technique is as soon as possible, but by the 32nd week of pregnancy is preferable especially if the breech position is confirmed. And if you’re beyond the 32nd week of your pregnancy, don’t worry! Better late than never. These techniques are gentle, non-invasive, and drug-free.
What can I expect from a Webster Technique Chiropractic Visit?
Full analysis of the muscles, joints, and ligaments of the pelvis/spine.
Movement screen.
Diversified, sacral adjustment with gentle soft tissue release.
Recommended treatment plan with exercises and stretches.
Using a combination of myofascial release (similar to a massage) and manual adjustments, your Webster Chiro sessions will use techniques that gently and safely prepare your body for birthing. What an excellent idea!
Sterling Prenatal Chiropractor, Dr. Will Sonak, with 15 years experience specializing in pregnancy, and pediatrics chiropractic care demonstrates a prenatal adjustment and the Webster Technique.
Benefits of chiropractic care during pregnancy
Decrease in discomforts such as back, hip, pelvic and groin pain.
Decrease in Sciatica, and heartburn.
Better sleep and mobility.
Reduction of tension in the muscles and ligaments supporting the uterus.
Reduction of Intrauterine Constraint, creating more space in the pelvis for baby to move freely and engage.
As a birth doula, I have seen the difference and so have the families I have supported. Along with other wellness modalities, I personally and highly recommend chiropractic care by someone certified in The Webster Technique.
So with all of this, you just may want to consider chiropractic care during your pregnancy. To find a Webster Certified Chiropractor near you, click here. Happy Birthing!
Did you utilize chiropractic care during your pregnancy?
If so, did you find benefit?
Let us know!
References:
http://icpa4kids.com/about/webster_technique.htm
http://pathwaystofamilywellness.org/Pregnancy-Birth/for-many-pregnant-moms-webster-technique-is-the-key-to-a-safer-birth.html
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5779240/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12183701
https://search.informit.com.au/documentSummary;dn=785127118674864;res=IELHEA
https://americanpregnancy.org/pregnancy-health/chiropractic-care-during-pregnancy/
https://www.mlchiro.com/resources/chiropractic-care-during-and-after-pregnancy/