Should I See A Chiropractor While Pregnant?
Chiropractic doctors work to maintain the health of your muscles, bones and joints through scientific adjustments of the body. This process is done without the use of medication and instead promotes healthy lifestyle choices to prevent future pain.
Because of this, chiropractors are ideal to treat the aches and pains that women experience with pregnancy. For approximately 50 percent of pregnant women, aching lower backs and hips are a part of their nine-month pregnancy experience. Scheduling a visit during your pregnancy can be highly beneficial in many ways. Since most chiropractors are trained in prenatal care, they know the best way to adjust the spine to relieve any of added bodily stress that comes along with pregnancy.
Why Should I See A Chiropractor?
There are several physical changes that will occur within your body during pregnancy—many of which that will impact your comfort, especially as the baby grows. These include:
- An increased curve in you back due to your protruding abdomen
- Rotation of the pelvis
- Poor posture
- Sciatica, a sharp shooting pain down the back of your leg and into your foot
Chiropractors are trained to locate and correct vertebrate restrictions, called joint dysfunction, by performing spinal adjustments—non-invasive and targeted movements to restore joint functions and nerve communication. Regular visits to the chiropractor can relieve these discomforts as the doctor will realign your spine and pelvis can be beneficial for both you and your baby.
How Will Chiropractic Care Help My Baby?
Misalignment during pregnancy can cause difficulties during birth. When the pelvis is misaligned, the developing baby has less space to grow and can experience intrauterine constraint, where the baby’s normal movements are obstructed. This can also affect the delivery, as the baby has a harder time moving into the rear-facing, head down position ideal for birth. This could lead to an intrusive and complicated delivery.
How Often Should I See A Chiropractor?
During your first visit to a chiropractor in Riverdale, MD, they will tailor a treatment plan to your specific pregnancy concerns. These treatment plan could range from visits every other day to visits once a month. The chiropractor will also suggest some at-home treatment that you can do between visits. These might include icing your sore joints, gentle stretches or additional exercises.
If you’re experiencing pain in your joints, back or hips during pregnancy, you should speak with your doctor before seeking out a chiropractic specialist. If you currently suffer from vaginal bleeding or toxemia, chiropractic care may not be recommended. However, once you get the green light from your primary care physician or gynecologist, you can begin a treatment plan with a chiropractor for pain management and relief during your pregnancy.
Thanks to AmeriWell Clinics for their insight into chiropractic care and pregnancy.
