Pregnancy

A visual observation of the curve of a pregnant woman’s back is all it takes to realize the effects the physiological changes are having on her spine. Although the human female body is usually well-equipped to undergo these changes, in order to ensure an excellent environment for fetal development – sometimes, the integrity of the mother’s spin can be compromised.

Given the magnitude of the physiological changes happening after a baby is conceived, it is not surprising that a mother may feel some discomfort. However, as a natural process, this should never be debilitating, nor should it be unduly restrictive. It is advisable to regularly see your primary care doctor and chiropractor to ensure both the health of the baby and yourself.

The Effects of Chiropractic on Exercise during Pregnancy

Research shows that mothers who maintain a balanced and active lifestyle provide short term and long term health for the baby. However, if your central nervous system is experiencing undue strain for any reason, and your spin is undergoing vertebral subluxation, then you will be unable to continue the moderately active lifestyle that is so essential to the continued health of both.

Any doctor will tell you that light to moderate exercises such as swimming or walking have positive benefits for mother and child; but with spine and nerve issues, you won’t be able to engage in these activities. Chiropractic adjustment, when applicable, results in a better experience of childbirth, as well as a reduction in the amount of painkillers taken by pregnant women in a study group performed by orthopedic doctors.

Relax. We use special approaches to make our adjustments safe and comfortable for you and your child.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Will adjustments hurt my baby?
  Of course not. This is a common concern among parents who mistakenly think their child will receive adjustments like the ones they receive. Not only are adjusting techniques modified for each person’s size and unique spinal problem, an infant’s spine rarely has the long-standing muscle tightness seen in adults. This makes the energy needed to adjust a child’s spine considerably less than an adult’s does.
• Will adjustments make my spine too loose?
  No. Only the spinal joints that are “locked up” receive adjustments. This allows weakened muscles and ligaments to stabilize and heal.
• Pregnancy is natural. Why would I need chiropractic?
  Being born is a natural phenomenon. It’s what we’ve done to the birth process that has become increasingly suspect. In hospitals, birth is often treated like a disease. A newborn’s introduction to the world is often accompanied by a severe drop in temperature, loud noises and other insensitivities. The administration of drugs and anesthesia can have a profound effect on a newborn.
• Will my medical doctor approve?
  First, you don’t need anyone’s approval to seek a chiropractic opinion about health issues affecting your child! The judgment of another health care expert is always helpful in the decision-making process. Medical practitioners keeping up with the latest pediatric chiropractic research are starting to understand the value of this natural, drug-free approach to better health.
• What does my spine have to do with my baby?
  Pregnancy may be one of the best times to receive chiropractic care! While it’s always good to have an optimally functioning nervous system, it’s especially helpful now. Both mother and baby can benefit. Adjusting methods are adapted to a mother’s size, weight and condition. During this period of weight gain and hormonal changes, many mothers seek chiropractic care. Some report shorter and easier births.