Chiropractic and pregnancy: What it's like and why you would see a prenatal chiropractor

Why women seek out chiropractors during pregnancy

Most of the time pregnant women seek chiropractic care because of their low back pain. About 75% of pregnant women suffer from back pain at some point during pregnancy. Most common is SI Joint pain because of the increasing weight of the abdomen adding stress to the joints, making them painful. Visit our low back pain during pregnancy page for more information on that. However, a pregnant woman may seek chiropractic treatment for other conditions or symptoms such as hip pain, neck tightness, headaches, nausea or labor and delivery preparation. Chiropractic is a great option because it is gentle, drug free treatment.

First chiropractic visit for pregnancy related conditions

So, once you’ve called and your appointment is set, insurance information is collected (if necessary) and some other clerical information is collected, you will be emailed the first visit paperwork to complete at home prior to your first visit.
Then you will go to the office for your visit (there will be just a few more quick forms to complete in the office).
You will head back to a private treatment room and begin the history portion. This includes discussing your reason(s) for visit and the details surrounding these concerns. Next, an examination will take place usually including vitals, and more focused tests regarding the areas of pain (if it is a musculoskeletal complaint). Then, you will be given a report of findings, or explanation of your condition and the possible treatment options.

Chiropractic treatment during pregnancy

If you choose to move forward you will likely receive some soft tissue massage work, a chiropractic manipulation and possible some home stretches to help combat the pain in between visits. If you are going to see the chiropractor about that nagging low back pain, they will probably use the Webster Technique. It is a special technique focusing on the biomechanics and function of the pelvis. For more details on the Webster Technique click here. So, in my opinion it is important to find a doctor certified in Webster technique because they have a highly specialized treatment tool that is specific to pregnant women. It also helps if the doctor has a belly pillow or pregnancy pillow. This is a specific pillow with a cut out for the abdomen allowing the woman to lay down face down and it is usually one of the best parts of treatment...actually being comfortable!

At the end of your visit, you and your doctor will discuss options for scheduling your next appointment.
Not enough info? Click here for more details or feel free to email me (drshah@whiteoakwell.com) with questions.

Neha Shah

Chiropractic Physician, Webster Technique Certified

White Oak Family Wellness

405 Illinois Avenue #2b

St. Charles, Illinois 60174

www.whiteoakwell.com

Visit us on Google+ at: +WhiteOakFamilyWellnessStCharles