Pregnancy

Why Chiropractic?

96% of women have been shown to experience back pain during pregnancy. The use of drugs is to be avoided so the chiropractic approach is a logical way to help ease pain and discomfort, and promote the health and well-being of the mother. Often the pregnant woman has complaints that are dismissed as "just a part of being pregnant". This is often not the case and you should not have to put up with the pain.

Many problems suffered during pregnancy may be directly related to the health of your spine.

These may include backache, headaches, aching legs, sciatica, breathlessness, dizziness, nausea and fatigue.

A woman’s back is particularly vulnerable during pregnancy because of the stress caused by carrying the weight of the unborn baby.

Hormonal changes make the pelvis more supple during the latter stages of pregnancy. This may further increase the susceptibility of the spinal joints and supporting muscles and ligaments to sprains and strains at that time.

Pregnancy therefore may create new problems, or exacerbate existing problems which were previously compensated for.

What can Chiropractic Care achieve?

Chiropractic care helps during pregnancy by:

• Gently correcting abnormal joint mechanics that lead to joint and nerve stress, thus reducing pain and improving function.
• Maintaining function and spinal balance so the spine may adapt to the increased weight and altered posture.
• Ensuring that the joints of the lower back and pelvis are moving freely to assist the birth process.
• Proper joint movement enhances pelvic opening.
• Educating the expectant mother on correct posture, lifting and other lifestyle factors in order to reduce spinal stress.
• Recommending exercises to assist spinal health.

Care After Birth:

The process of childbirth places great stress on the spine and pelvis and their supporting muscles and ligaments. Joints, muscles and ligaments are more supple from hormonal changes for some time after giving birth. This may increase susceptibility to injury.

With the added strain on the back,, neck and shoulders whilst nursing, feeding and caring for an infant, it is easy to see why many women suffer after childbirth. Chiropractors recommend that new mothers have their spine examined soon after giving birth.

Periodic checkups may be recommended to prevent future problems.

Not only is it important to care for your own health, but also that of your infant. Many problems of the newborn, such as colic and irritability respond well to chiropractic care.

Click Here for advice on preventative care during pregnancy.

See also : The Chiropractic Approach