Can I have Chiropractic treatment whilst pregnant?
Pregnant mothers literally bear the weight of the world – adding maybe 25-35 extra pounds onto their bodies!
For many pregnant women aches and pains in the low back and hips are all part of the experience, luckily, relief can be just a Chiropractor away!
Here is what you should know about the benefits of having Chiropractic treatment during pregnancy.
How can Chiropractic treatment help my pregnancy?
The hormonal changes during pregnancy are widely publicised and extremely significant, if an imbalance occurs it affects both the expectant mother and her unborn child.
It is important to address any joint misalignments or restrictions that can occur as weight not only increases, but shifts, which changes the mother’s centre of gravity and affects her balance.
Chiropractic treatment aims to achieve proper alignment of the spine and hips and can relieve months of pain caused by the added pressure on the joints and nerves.
During pregnancy, there are several physiological changes that occur in preparation for creating the environment for the developing baby. The following changes can result in pain in the lower back and hips: –
- Pelvic changes
- Postural adaptations
- Protruding abdomen and increased back curve
When the pelvis is misaligned, it may reduce the amount of room available for the developing baby, this restriction is called intrauterine constraint. This constraint may also make it difficult for the baby to get in the best possible position for delivery!
Is it safe to have Chiropractic treatment when pregnant?
All our Chiropractors are trained to work with women who are pregnant. To adjust a pregnant woman your Chiropractor will use a specially designed pregnancy pillow to accommodate their growing tummies and will use techniques that won’t put pressure on the abdomen.
Your Chiropractor can also show you some effective stretches for relieving tension and easing discomfort.
5 Benefits of having Chiropractic treatment during pregnancy
- Relief from back pain.
Back pain is one of the most common complaints amongst pregnant women, it is often caused by the loosening of ligaments and joints in preparation for delivery. Routine Chiropractic adjustments throughout the pregnancy can help relieve pain or injury caused by spinal instability.
- Improved posture.
It is important for pregnant women to avoid the “arching” of the back that commonly happens during pregnancy because this can lead to long-term back pain and injury. With advice from your Chiropractor, you will learn techniques for keeping a correct posture.
- Improved Pelvic balance.
This is particularly important for mothers who are concerned about their babies staying in the breech position. There is evidence to suggest that having Chiropractic treatment during pregnancy assists with maintaining pelvic balance that helps babies move more freely into the right pre-birth position.
- Injury avoidance.
Having regular Chiropractic treatment helps mothers to stay flexible. This can help to reduce stress injuries that can occur as women adapt to their changing bodies.
- Faster recovery after labour.
Regular Chiropractic treatment during pregnancy can put your body in a position to heal and bounce back much quicker because you are starting off with your body in proper balance.
When not to see a Chiropractor
More than 1 million Chiropractic adjustments are given every day, all over the world. Complications are extremely rare. During pregnancy, Chiropractic treatment is believed to be safe, however, there are certain circumstances where Chiropractic treatment may not be a good idea.
Chiropractic treatment isn’t typically recommended if you are experiencing the following:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Placenta previa or placenta abruption
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Moderate to severe toxaemia
If you are suffering from back, hip or any joint pain in your pregnancy speak to one of our highly trained and qualified Chiropractors and let us help you on your way to a pain free pregnancy!
If you would like some further information or to speak to a member of our team please call us on: Hitchin 01462 420077 or Luton 01582 579687, alternatively e-mail us at: hitchin@healesclinics.com or luton@healesclinics.com