During pregnancy, our bodies go through an incredible number of changes, some obvious and some more subtle.  For forty weeks, our bodies actually become the life support system for another person. This necessitates some very big adjustments and while pregnancy is an awe-inspiring process, the changes wrought on our bodies are often uncomfortable and sometimes downright debilitating.

As our babies grow and our bellies get round, our center of gravity shifts, leading to postural changes which put undue stress on our bodies.  Our backs curve more as we try to balance the weight of the baby—we speak of “carrying a baby” during pregnancy, and in reality we are.  We are carrying not only a seven- to nine-pound baby, but an additional 20 pounds or more of water, placenta, and additional fat stores just as if we were balancing it on our navels.  This puts a tremendous strain on the spine and pelvis.

Changes also occur on a less obvious scale.  During pregnancy, our body chemistry changes and connective tissues soften and become more flexible in preparation for birth.  Joints become less stable, and our feet become flatter. These changes combined with the weight and pressure of the growing baby can contribute to pelvic and spinal issues. Chiropractic care can resolve these issues, alleviating some of the discomfort of pregnancy and helping ensure against some complications later on.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy

Not only can chiropractic care reduce the discomforts of pregnancy, it can lessen the likelihood of complications during birth.

Pelvic misalignment can result in a condition called intrauterine constraint. This means that there is less room for the developing baby to grow and move, which can create problems.  A misaligned pelvis can also make it difficult for baby to get into the best position for delivery—and unusual presentations are one of the most common reasons for C-sections and other interventions.  Pregnancy chiropractic care can help insure that baby is in the best position for birth.

The Webster Technique—What is it?

The Webster Technique is a chiropractic adjustment designed solely for expectant mothers.  It balances pelvic bones, muscles, and ligaments and relieves intrauterine constraint, allowing baby to move freely.  It can prevent or even change a breech position, lowering the risk of Cesarean section.  Babies can change position at any time up to 39 weeks, but for best results care should be started as soon as a breech presentation has been diagnosed.

Chiropractors Are Doctors Too

Our chiropractor should be a regular member of our prenatal care team. Our OB/GYN has specialized knowledge, and our chiropractor does too.  While the OB/GYN focuses on our growing baby, the chiropractor understands what’s going on with the rest of our body, and together they can design a treatment program that ensures the healthiest, most stress-free, and comfortable pregnancy possible.

Pregnancy Chiropractor in Troy, Michigan

Chiropractic care throughout our pregnancies can not only alleviate much of our discomfort, it can help keep our bodies strong and healthy and prepared for birth, and increase our chances of a strong and healthy baby.  Pregnancy chiropractic care in Troy, Michigan includes:

• Spinal adjustments — Gentle spinal adjustments designed specifically for pregnant women are important.Spinal adjustments fix subluxations, misalignments, and help correct posture.
• Therapeutic exercise and stretches — As our bodies change and become more ungainly, our regular exercise routine may become impossible. Chiropractic care includes a program of therapeutic exercise and stretches tailored to the needs of pregnant women and designed to keep muscles strong and pain-free.
• Massage therapy — Massage therapy also reduces muscle aches and pains and helps reduce stress levels
• Nutritional counseling — Our bodies have different needs during pregnancy, and eating right during pregnancy increases the chance of a healthy baby.

**Disclaimer** Information in this post is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult your physician to discuss your options and find out what care is best for you.