What are some of the conditions we support during pregnancy?
Pregnancy involves hormonal changes, weight gain, and postural adjustments that can lead to discomfort and added strain on the spine. Chiropractic care during pregnancy focuses on promoting overall balance, symmetry, comfort, and optimal pelvic alignment for you and the developing baby.
It's estimated that up to 50% to 80% of pregnant individuals experience lower back pain during pregnancy. Chiropractic care offers a gentle holistic approach to managing these discomforts and enhancing overall pregnancy experience. Some of the common issues we see during pregnancy are:
- Sacroiliac Strain: The sacroiliac joint, located at the base of the spine, can become strained during pregnancy due to the body's increased production of hormones like relaxin. This hormone softens the ligaments in preparation for childbirth but can also affect joint stability. Sacroiliac strain often results in lower back and pelvic pain.
- Pubic Symphysis Strain/Separation: The pubic symphysis is the joint in the front of the pelvis that connects the two pubic bones. During pregnancy, this area can experience strain or separation due to the growing uterus and changes in the body's centre of gravity. Pubic symphysis strain can cause discomfort and difficulty with mobility.
- Rib Alignment: As the abdomen expands to accommodate the growing baby, the ribcage can also shift. This change in rib alignment can lead to discomfort, particularly in the upper back and chest. It may result in symptoms like rib pain, shortness of breath, and difficulty finding a comfortable posture.
We understand the unique challenges that pregnancy brings and are here to support you on your journey to a more comfortable and healthier pregnancy. Chiropractic care during pregnancy aims to alleviate discomfort, maintain proper alignment, and improve overall well-being for both you and your baby.
Benefits of Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy
Chiropractic care offers a natural and drug-free approach to enhance pregnancy comfort.
- Relief from Aches: Alleviating back, neck, and pelvic pain commonly experienced during pregnancy.
- Optimal Pelvic Alignment: Promoting proper pelvic positioning and mobility for easier labour and delivery.
- Postural Support: Managing postural changes along the way to minimise strain on the spine.
Your Chiropractic Consultation during Pregnancy
At Wynyard Chiropractic, we provide personalised consultations tailored to the needs of each pregnancy stage.
- Comprehensive assessment of your physical condition, general health, and medical history.
- Thorough non-invasive examination of the spine, pelvis, and posture to identify areas of concern.
- Customised treatment plans, focusing on gentle and conservative techniques for pregnancy.
Chiropractic Techniques Used During Pregnancy
Our experienced chiropractors at Wynyard Chiropractic utilise gentle and conservative techniques suitable for pregnant individuals. Pregnancy chiropractic care is distinctly tailored, employing a gentle and conservative approach with modified techniques to best support the well-being of expectant mothers. Some of the techniques we utilise are:
- Webster Technique: Specifically designed to enhance pelvic alignment and balance during pregnancy by working with the soft tissues that often become stressed or strained as the body changes.
- Soft Tissue Therapies: Alleviating muscle tension and promoting stability and strength.
- Spinal Adjustments: Gentle corrections to maintain spinal health and balance.
Our Principal Chiropractor Dr John de Voy has had over 40 years of experience caring for pregnant women, post-partum mums, and new bubs. His qualifications include a three year post graduate degree in perinatal care and paediatric chiropractic, known as a Diplomate in Clinical Chiropractic Paediatrics (DICCP).