One of the goals of Chiropractic care is a healthy and well-maintained spinal column, discs, related nerves and bone geometry without drugs or surgery. It involves the art and science of adjusting misaligned joints of the body, especially of the spine, which reduces spinal nerve stress and therefore promotes health throughout the body.
Is chiropractic care safe during pregnancy?
There are no known contraindications to chiropractic care throughout pregnancy. All chiropractors are trained to work with women who are pregnant and many have advanced training.
Below represents designations of chiropractors that have taken advanced steps in working with infertility and pregnancy wellness.
DACCP – Diplomate with ICPA reflecting highest level of advanced training.
FICPA - Fellow with ICPA reflecting advanced training.
Member of ICPA - Reflecting special interest.
Webster Certified – Trained to work specifically with breech positions.
Chiropractors that have been trained to work with pregnant women will use tables that adjust for a pregnant woman’s body, and they will use techniques that avoid unneeded pressure on the abdomen.
A chiropractor that is versed in the needs of women who are pregnant will also provide you with exercises and stretches that are safe to use during pregnancy and complement any adjustments made to your spine.
Why should I have chiropractic care during pregnancy? During pregnancy, there are several physiological and endocrinological changes that occur in preparation for creating the environment for the developing baby.
The following changes could result in a misaligned spine or joint:
• Protruding abdomen and increased back curve
• Pelvic changes
• Postural adaptations
Establishing pelvic balance and alignment is another reason to obtain chiropractic care during pregnancy. When the pelvis is misaligned it may reduce the amount of room available for the baby. This restriction is called intrauterine constraint. A misaligned pelvis may also make it difficult for the baby to get into the best possible position for delivery.
The nervous system is the master communication system to all the body systems including the reproduction system. Keeping the spine aligned helps the entire body work more effectively.