Many people ask us if it is safe to utilise Chiropractic while pregnant and if so what are the benefits to receiving Chiropractic care while pregnant.

Our Chiropractors at Hawker Chiropractic in Canberra love working with pregnant mum’s and have helped many mums over the years throughout their pregnancy. Each of our Chiropractors have undertaken post graduate studies in the area and are willing and able to assist you throughout your pregnancy.

What are the benefits of Chiropractic care during pregnancy?

Chiropractic care during pregnancy may offer a natural solution to painful musculoskeletal symptoms such as back pain, neck pain and pelvic instability. While the research is sparse when it comes to Chiropractic and Pregnancy the research that is available is hugely positive.

Back pain is quite common in pregnancy and may be relieved through Chiropractic care.

Studies show that over 50% of women experience back pain during their pregnancy, however most don’t seek help for this which is such a shame as another study found that of the pregnant women that Chiropractors did see around 75% benefited from Chiropractic care. Although statistics show most women don’t see a Chiropractor during their pregnancy Chiropractic is the third common alternative therapy used during pregnancy by those who choose to use extra resources during their pregnancy (massage and yoga are number 1 and 2).

75% of pregnant patients who received chiropractic care during their pregnancies stated that they found relief from pain.

Back labour and Chiropractic

It has also been noted in the literature that Chiropractic care may significantly decreased the incidence of “back labour” (where women experience a lot of pain in their back throughout labour). The risk of experiencing back labour is 3 times more likely if you have experienced back pain through pregnancy. By receiving Chiropractic care during pregnancy to relieve your back pain you potentially decrease the chance of experiencing a very uncomfortable back  labour.

Labour times and Chiropractic

Another study reported that first time mums who seek Chiropractic care throughout their pregnancy have on average a 25% shorter labour time! Women in their subsequent pregnancies who undergo Chiropractic care during their pregnancy have on average a 31% shorter labour time. I think most women would put their hands up for a shorter labour time!

The Webster Technique

The Webster technique is a specific sacral analysis coupled with specific adjustments that aim to restore balance to the pelvis and correct potential musculoskeletal causes of intrauterine constraint. Intrauterine constraints is where there is an external force to the developing baby that may obstruct its normal movement within the uterus. These external forces can be tight ligaments, restricted joints or tight muscles. Whilst this technique is mainly focused on women in later pregnancy with a breech baby we also use the analysis throughout pregnancy to make sure your baby is moving freely in the uterus.

 It is important to note that when we use the Webster technique we do not manually try to move the baby! We only attempt to correct the biomechanical causes of the restraint.

To learn more about the Webster Technique go here https://icpa4kids.com/training/webster-certification/webster-technique/