Pregnancy Ailments & Chiropractic Care: Is It Safe to Use a Chiropractor While Pregnant?
Pregnancy is a beautiful time, but it can also come with a fair share of discomfort. Back pain, pelvic pain, and other musculoskeletal issues are common complaints among expecting mothers. Fortunately, using a chiropractor while pregnant can offer a safe and effective solution for many of these pregnancy ailments.
At J & Co. Chiropractic, Dr. Jessica Cho specializes in treating pregnant women and children. She understands a pregnancy’s unique challenges and is dedicated to providing gentle, personalized care to help you feel your best throughout your journey.
Dr. Cho is also certified in the Webster Technique, a specific chiropractic technique designed to help address potential pelvic imbalances that can affect pregnancy and childbirth. The Webster Technique involves gentle adjustments to the pelvis and sacrum, aiming to restore optimal alignment and function. This can help alleviate discomfort, improve fetal positioning, and potentially reduce the risk of complications during labor and delivery.
Understanding Pregnancy-Related Lumbopelvic Pain (PR LPP)
One of the most frequent pregnancy discomforts is lumbopelvic pain, which encompasses both lower back pain and pelvic girdle pain. This pain can significantly impact a woman’s daily life, affecting mobility, sleep, and overall well-being.
There are two main types of PR LPP:
- Pregnancy-related low back pain (PR LBP): This refers to pain experienced in the lower back, typically between the 12th rib and the buttocks. Symptoms can include dull aches, worsening with forward bending, and tightness in the lower back muscles.
- Pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain (PR PGP): This pain is located in the pelvic region, including the lower back, buttocks, groin, and pubic symphysis. It can radiate down the leg and may be accompanied by clicking or grinding sensations. PR PGP can significantly impact activities like walking, standing, and sitting.
Causes of PR LPP
The exact cause of PR LPP is unknown, but several factors are believed to contribute:
- Hormonal changes: Relaxin, a hormone released during pregnancy, loosens ligaments and joints in preparation for childbirth. While this is necessary for delivery, it can also lead to instability in the pelvis and lower back, contributing to pain.
- Weight gain: As the baby grows, the mother’s weight increases, putting extra strain on the back and pelvic joints.
- Postural changes: The growing belly alters a woman’s center of gravity, leading to postural adaptations that can strain the lower back and pelvis.
- Muscle imbalances: Weak core muscles and tight hip flexors can further contribute to pain.
Understanding Other Pregnancy-Related Ailments
As pregnancy progresses, women may experience various discomforts and ailments. These can vary depending on the trimester and individual factors. Here’s a breakdown of common issues:
First Trimester:
- Nausea and vomiting: Morning sickness can be a common occurrence.
- Fatigue: Hormonal changes and increased energy demands can lead to tiredness.
- Breast tenderness: Hormones cause the breasts to prepare for milk production.
- Frequent urination: The growing uterus puts pressure on the bladder.
Second Trimester:
- Back pain: The weight of the growing baby can strain the back muscles.
- Pelvic pain: Hormonal changes and weight gain can contribute to pelvic discomfort.
- Round ligament pain: Sharp pains felt in the lower abdomen or groin.
- Heartburn: Acid reflux can occur due to hormonal changes and increased pressure on the stomach.
Third Trimester:
- Swelling: Fluid retention can cause swelling in the hands, feet, and ankles.
- Shortness of breath: The growing uterus can put pressure on the lungs.
- Sleep disturbances: Difficulty finding an optimal position can prevent a pregnant woman from having a more restful sleep.
- Braxton Hicks contractions: Practice contractions that prepare the body for labor.
While these ailments are common, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or experience severe symptoms.
How Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy Can Help
Prenatal chiropractic care offers a gentle, non-invasive approach to managing PR LPP. Here’s how it can benefit you:
- Spinal Adjustments: Gentle chiropractic adjustments can help improve joint mobility and alignment in the spinal column and pelvis, alleviating pain and promoting better balance.
- Soft Tissue Therapy: Techniques like massage therapy can relax tight muscles, improve circulation, and reduce pain and inflammation.
- Exercises: Specific exercises are recommended to strengthen core muscles and improve posture, providing support for the back and pelvis.
- Education: Many chiropractors provide valuable information on proper body mechanics, posture awareness, and exercises that can be done at home to manage pain and promote long-term well-being.
Benefits of Chiropractic Care for a Healthier Pregnancy
Studies have shown that chiropractic care during pregnancy can offer significant benefits, including:
- Reduced pain: Research indicates that chiropractic care can effectively alleviate pain in the lower back and pelvic area associated with pregnancy.
- Improved mobility: By improving joint function and reducing muscle tension, chiropractic care can enhance a woman’s ability to perform daily activities with greater ease.
- Enhanced sleep: Reduced pain often leads to better sleep quality, which is crucial for overall well-being during pregnancy.
- Preparation for childbirth: Chiropractic adjustments can help improve pelvic alignment, potentially making delivery easier.
Prenatal chiropractic care is considered safe and effective when performed by a qualified chiropractor experienced in treating expecting mothers. Here at J & Co. Chiropractic, our chiropractors utilize specialized techniques tailored specifically for a pregnant woman’s body. Dr. Jessica Cho prioritizes your comfort and safety throughout your entire chiropractic treatment plan.
During your initial consultation at J & Co. Chiropractic, your chiropractor will discuss your pregnancy journey, any specific concerns you have, and your overall health history. A thorough physical examination will be performed to assess your posture, joint mobility, and any areas of pain. Based on this evaluation, your pregnancy chiropractor will develop a personalized treatment plan designed to address your unique needs and goals.
Experience a More Comfortable Pregnancy with J & Co. Chiropractic
At J & Co. Chiropractic, Dr. Jessica Cho is dedicated to helping you have a comfortable and healthy pregnancy. She understands the importance of feeling your best as you prepare for motherhood. If you are experiencing back pain, pelvic pain, or other musculoskeletal issues, chiropractic care can be a valuable addition to your prenatal care routine.
Dr. Jessica Cho is also a proud member of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA), a professional organization dedicated to advancing the understanding and practice of chiropractic care for children. This membership signifies her commitment to providing the highest quality of care for infants and children.