Chiropractic and pregnancy

Everyones first question: is it safe?

Chiropractic care is the health maintenance of the spinal column and the adjustment of misaligned joints. It doesn’t involve drugs or surgery. Instead, it’s a kind of physical therapy to reduce spinal nerve stress and promote health throughout the body.

More than 1 million chiropractic adjustments are given every day, all over the world. Complications are rare. During pregnancy, chiropractic care is believed to be safe. But there are certain circumstances where chiropractic care may not be a good idea.

Always get your doctor’s approval before seeing a chiropractor during pregnancy. Chiropractic care isn’t typically recommended if you’re experiencing the following:

• vaginal bleeding
• placenta previa or placenta abruption
• ectopic pregnancy
• moderate to severe toxemia

While all licensed chiropractors receive training related to pregnancy, some chiropractors specialize in prenatal care. Ask if they specialize in this area, or get a referral from your doctor.

To adjust pregnant women, chiropractors will use adjusting tables to accommodate their growing bellies. All chiropractors should use techniques that won’t put pressure on the abdomen.

Chiropractors can also show you effective stretches for relieving tension and easing discomfort.

How can chiropractic care help during pregnancy?

There are many hormonal and physical changes you’ll experience during your pregnancy. Some of these will have an impact on your posture and comfort. As your baby becomes heavier, your center of gravity shifts, and your posture adjusts accordingly.

These physical changes during your pregnancy can lead to a misaligned spine or joints.

Other uncomfortable changes during pregnancy might include:

• a protruding abdomen resulting in an increased curve of your back
• changes to your pelvis as your body begins to prepare for labor
• adaptations to your posture

Regular visits to a chiropractor during your pregnancy can address these issues. One collaborative chiropractic and medical study revealed that 75 percent of pregnant chiropractic care patients reported pain relief. Plus, adjustments designed to re-establish balance and alignment to your pelvis and spine will do more than just make you feel better. Chiropractic care can be beneficial for your baby, too.

Dr. Kristin Bezek of our Sodus Office is uniquely trained in prenatal chiropractic care. If you have any questions or concerns about this issue, feel free to call our office and talk directly with her at (315) 498 0243, or stop by at 8479 Ridge Rd., we’re happy to help answer any questions you might have.

_{Excerpted from “Chiropractic while pregnant” originally written for HEALTHLINE.com. Read the full article here.}