Chiropractic Care for the Mommy to Be
By Debra Rodzinak
The joys of pregnancy are numerous, as are the changes to the body. Weight gain, stretched skin and muscles, swollen legs, and aching backs can feel less than joyous. Chiropractic care is a solution for any pregnant woman who is searching for a drug-free solution to freedom from back pain and an overall feeling of better health.
What causes lower back pain during pregnancy?
As a baby grows, it changes the “load distributions” of the mother. Certain parts of the lower back are slowly pulled out of place and cause pain. Pressure on the pelvis and surrounding structures can also cause pain and discomfort. Even a modest weight gain of 20 to 30 pounds during pregnancy can put great stress on the joints. As the baby grows, the weight is projected forward which places extra stress on the joints and discs of the spine.
How safe is chiropractic care during pregnancy?
According to a published article in The Journal of Chiropractic Medicine (JCM) in the spring of 2007, “Chiropractic evaluation and treatment during this period (pregnancy) may be warranted and considered a safe and effective means of treating common musculoskeletal symptoms that many pregnant patients encounter.” The study also suggested that regular chiropractic care might improve the probability of a successful birth.
How often do pregnant women seek alternative therapies like chiropractic?
Of the chiropractors surveyed on their pregnant patients, they reported that 72 percent of pregnant patients likely benefited from the chiropractic care administered. Of the 950 pregnant mothers surveyed, 31 percent reported that they used alternative therapies like massage, yoga, and chiropractic care.
What types of chiropractic procedures are used for pregnant women?
Ligaments are already stretched in areas during pregnancy. This stretching makes adjustments gentle and rather easy. Sometimes special tables are used for additional comfort during the later stages of pregnancy. Special care is always given for the overall comfort of a patient. According to the JCM, “The chiropractic adjustment can be beneficial and, with proper patient positioning for comfort and relaxation, only the slightest force need be applied to safely and successfully correct misalignment and fixation in the spine and pelvis of the pregnant chiropractic patient.”
If you are pregnant and decide to reduce or eliminate your back pain with a drug-free approach, drop by The Joint. Our licensed chiropractors offer a convenient, hassle-free appointment to discuss the types of gentle, targeted movements needed to give you improved motion to the spinal column and extremities.
At The Joint, we believe that a chiropractic care routine can result in a person having a healthier, more active lifestyle. Just drop in. The Joint offers convenient hours, affordable rates, and no pesky insurance forms to fill out.