Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy
The spine is made up of 24 independent vertebrae that enable the body to twist, bend and move. It also helps protect the delicate central nervous system that controls and coordinates every cell, tissue, and organ of the body.
Subluxations of the spine, commonly known as joint dysfunctions, occur when two or more vertebrae become restricted and impede the body’s ability to communicate with itself. Joint dysfunctions during pregnancy can be caused by the changes taking place in your body as it prepares to support you and your baby.
Chiropractors are trained to locate and correct joint dysfunctions by applying a gentle, targeted movement to the body’s spinal column and extremities–where and when needed–restoring proper joint function and improving nerve communication throughout the body. This non-invasive technique is commonly known as a chiropractic adjustment.
Benefits of Chiropractic for Pregnancy
Pelvic Balance
Pregnant women often have issues with their pelvic balance. Many women experience pelvic changes during their pregnancy. When the pelvis is not in line, it can restrict the amount of room that the developing baby has. Chiropractors can adjust the pelvis to prevent this issue, also known as intrauterine constraint.
Posture
Many women have issues with back pain during pregnancy due to the extra weight they carry in the front of their body. The protruding abdomen can increase the curve in the back and cause pain and posture issues. Chiropractors can restore proper posture, and prevent the stress of pregnancy on the body from causing long-term pain and posture issues.
Pregnancy Symptoms
Chiropractic care has been shown to reduce some of the uncomfortable symptoms associated with pregnancy. Regular chiropractic care can help women maintain their health during pregnancy, relieve joint and neck pain and control the symptoms of nausea.
Reducing Labor and Delivery Time
Since women who receive regular chiropractic care are taking care of their nervous system, many have found their bodies are better prepared to handle the childbirth process. When the nervous system is working properly, the whole body is working as it should be. With this in mind, many women who receive chiropractic care during pregnancy have shorter labor and delivery times.