[WombToBloom]

I have chronic back and shoulder problems so I'm dreading not being able to see my chiropractor. Is it safe to do so? He says it's just fine but I want to make sure!

[WombToBloom]

A well trained chiropractor will know how to handle a pregnant woman and will be delicate when it comes to adjusting the spine. The neck and the thorax are easier and don’t interfere with the pregnancy. If the problem is in the lower back, the chiropractor cannot have you lie on your stomach and may be able to do some adjustments while you are standing up. Chiropractors can’t make you go into labor nor can they harm the pregnancy as long as they stay away from the belly. Manipulation of the lower spine is more difficult but in many cases, it can be done with some adjustments and you can feel relief from your neck or back pain. There is no reason not to see a well trained chiropractor who can accommodate your expanding belly and can still make your spine feel better. As always, you should talk to your regular doctor about seeing a chiropractor during the pregnancy.

A well trained chiropractor will do gentle spinal adjustive procedures, especially designed for use in the pregnant female. He or she will help keep the pelvis and spine in correct position and can assist in pain relief. He or she can help you learn therapeutic exercises and stretches that are safe for you to use during pregnancy. It will keep the spinal muscles strong and pain free. It can also enable spinal muscles to maintain the spine in a neutral and correct posture and keep the mom mobile and active.

The chiropractor can do soft tissue work, such as massage, trigger point manipulation and soft tissue mobilization. This will keep the muscles relaxed and very flexible. It will also reduce stress on the spine. Some chiropractors will provide dietary and nutritional counseling for the pregnant mother.

[journeybirth]

Check with your chiropractor - some are trained to work with pregnant women and children (in addition to their regular chiropractic training)

[DoulaMom]

It is safe for almost every pregnant woman, but again, check references and ask questions. I have a chiro I refer my clients to for the "Webster Method" which sometimes help breech babies turn toward the light!

[Knoxville Doula]

You can also look on icpa4kids.com.. these are chiropractors who have received extra training in caring for pregnant women and babies/children.

[journeybirth]

Thanks Kimberly! I knew there was a website but I couldn't remember it!

[DoulaChar]

Here's a great article on the Webster Technique, and the importance of receiving Chiropractic care during pregnancy. Always try to co-ordinate your care. Let your doctor or midwife know you are receiving Chiropractic care, an of course, let your Chiropractor know that you are pregnant and under the care of a midwife or physician.

ICPA - Chiropractic for Children

[Melamma]

For sure you can! When I was pregnant it was the only way to relieve a lot of the pain I had!

[Chesapeake Birth]

Yes, a local midwife here in MD encourages her clients to see a chiropractor the entire pregnancy.She says it helps align her baby if mom stays aligned and she says they delivery much easier.

[Knoxville Doula]

Originally Posted by journeybirth

Thanks Kimberly! I knew there was a website but I couldn't remember it!

You're welcome!! My sister in law is actually certified through that organization!