Pregnancy & How Chiropractic Can Help
By Dr. Nicole Cook, D.C.
Pregnancy is an optimal time to receive chiropractic care. At least half of pregnant women experience back pain, and this can impact both the experience of the pregnancy itself as well as the activities of daily living for the mom-to-be. It is the most common symptom reported by women while expecting.
The average weight gain for most women throughout their pregnancy is 25-35 pounds. Much of this is around the abdomen, which causes a bit more stress through the front of the pelvis. This can translate to added stress on the back, hips, knees, and feet. This added weight can create imbalances in posture and balance. In addition, as the baby grows, the uterus will expand, which can cause stretching in the abdomen and decrease the ability for them to provide support to the core as a unit. This change in posture can cause pain and discomfort in the lower back/pelvis region. Furthermore, the hormone relaxin increases in a woman’s body (especially after the third trimester), which can cause a loosening of the joints even further. This is beneficial as it supports the growing uterus, the baby, and eventually, the birth. This increase in relaxin can create a decrease in stability, which can lead to further pain and problems.
Additional symptoms that women may report include:
- Neck pain
- Mid-back pain
- Pelvic pain
- Aching legs
- Swelling in wrists (including carpal tunnel syndrome)
- Sciatic pain (pain shooting down the leg/foot)
Chiropractic has been shown to be an extremely effective form of care that can help decrease pain throughout pregnancy, all the way through to labour. Studies have shown that women who receive chiropractic care throughout their pregnancy often report less pain, less intervention during labour, and a shorter recovery time after birth.
Is it safe?
Absolutely! Chiropractic is extremely safe and can help relieve pain and improve function. Dr. Cook and Dr. Arora are both Webster-technique certified. This is a specific chiropractic analysis designed to test for pelvis imbalance in pregnant women and help with any problems that may arise from a result of this dysfunction.
How else can chiropractic help with pregnancy?
Our approach may include specific exercises and stretches to help prepare a pregnant woman for labour and delivery. Chiropractic care can also include various other modalities to help with fatigued, sore muscles. Athletic therapy and massage therapy (both available at our clinic) are fantastic adjuncts to chiropractic care. In addition, chiropractic care can help with postnatal recovery and help address any biomechanical complaints or issues that may arise following labour and delivery.
Any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact the clinic. We would be thrilled to help you with your pre- and post-natal journey!