Chiropractic has an important role to play in the care of women both during and after pregnancy. It is perfectly safe for mother and developing child.
At a time when the use of drugs is to be avoided, the chiropractic approach is a logical way to help ease pain and discomfort, and promote the health and wellbeing of the mother.
Many of the physical aches suffered during pregnancy may be directly related to the spine. These may include backache, headaches, aching legs, sciatica, and fatigue. During pregnancy 96 per cent of women experience back pain.
A woman’s back is particularly vulnerable during pregnancy because of the stress caused by carrying the weight of the unborn baby. Hormonal changes make the pelvis more flexible during the latter stages of pregnancy. This may further increase the susceptibility of the spinal joints and supporting muscles and ligaments to sprains and strains at that time.
The role of the chiropractor is to participate in educating the expectant mother on correct posture, lifting and other lifestyle factors in order to reduce spinal stress and recommending exercises to assist spinal health.
Your chiropractor can help you manage the various mechanical imbalances of the spine and pelvis that may develop due to the increased physical strain of pregnancy.
The process of childbirth places great stress on the spine and pelvis, and their supporting muscles and ligaments. Joints, muscles and ligaments are more supple from hormonal changes for some time after giving birth. This may increase susceptibility to injury.
With the added strain on the back, neck and shoulders while nursing, feeding and caring for an infant, it is easy to see why many women suffer after childbirth.
Chiropractic care helps during pregnancy by correcting abnormal joint mechanics that lead to joint stress, thus reducing pain and improving function. The treatment goal is to maintaining joint function so the spine may adapt to the increased weight and altered posture.
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