Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Pregnancy is a miraculous journey, but it can often come with aches, pains, and discomforts. Many expectant mothers wonder, “Is chiropractic safe during pregnancy?” I’m here to address your concerns and provide insights on the topic. I’m Dr. Dean Collins, a chiropractor in Edmonton, Alberta, and I have lots of experience in treating pregnant women through safe and effective chiropractic care.
Pregnancy and your spine
Developing problems with your spine while you are pregnant is common amongst women. In fact, up to 90% of pregnant women experience back pain. Further, 35% of those women have moderate, severe, or disabling pain where it has a significant impact on their activities of daily living. (1)
Low back pain is common in pregnancy for a few reasons. First and foremost, the extra 20-40 founds of weight you start to carry in your belly will put more stress on your spine and pelvis. Second, the hormone relaxin starts increasing throughout your pregnancy which will loosen up the ligaments in your pelvis to prepare you for birth. So that will create some extra instability in your low back area which can lead to back pain. Finally, your blood volume can increase up to 50% which could lead to inflammation and edema.
Considering you’re not supposed to take medications during pregnancy, you’re going to need help that is safe and effective. Chiropractors fit this mold. Indeed, chiropractors are experts in taking care of your spine and nervous system and providing you with safe and effective relief for back pain. As well, chiropractors have the expertise to care for your spine and whole body before and after your pregnancy.
The safety of chiropractic care for pregnant women
Ensuring safety in prenatal chiropractic adjustments is a top priority. We are highly trained and experienced in providing care to pregnant women. Our techniques are gentle, and we take the utmost precautions to safeguard both you and your baby during every session. Furthermore, our tables are equipped with sections of the table that lower down to allow you to lie safely on your stomach.
Chiropractic adjustments are safe. Severe adverse effects are rare. In fact, most reported adverse events are minor and transient (such as muscle soreness) and resolve within 24 hours after adjustments. (1) As well, chiropractors are trained to do a thorough history and examination to determine if chiropractic care is a safe and viable option for you. Only with your formal consent can treatment begin.
The benefits of prenatal chiropractic adjustments
Chiropractic care during pregnancy offers numerous benefits. Chiropractic adjustments are done to your spine (sometimes extremities) to correct spinal misalignments (subluxations). In turn, this helps your brain and nervous system to work better creating an environment within your body so it can heal and function better. Therefore, the adjustments can help your body deal with common discomforts like back pain, pelvic pain, and sciatica more effectively. As well, by improving the health of your spine and nervous system, we aim to enhance your overall well-being before, during, and after your pregnancy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, chiropractic care can be a safe and effective option during pregnancy when provided by a qualified chiropractor. If you’re in Edmonton or the surrounding area and seeking chiropractic care during your pregnancy, we’re here to support you. Feel free to reach out for more information or to schedule a consultation. Your safety and well-being are our top priorities.
For a healthy spine and nervous system, contact Edmonton chiropractor Dr. Dean Collins. Or book a consult and exam with him today.
To learn more about how chiropractor care can help you and your family, read Dr. Collins’ comprehensive guide to chiropractic care: Chiropractic Care for Everyone.
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