Four Benefits Of Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy

Pregnancy means quite a bit of changes in a woman's body. Women gain an average of 25-35 pounds during pregnancy according to the American Chiropractic Association, which can put quite a bit of stress on the body's joints and muscles. It can cause lower back and hip pain, which can make for sleepless nights. To help remedy these issues, a trip to the chiropractor may be beneficial to you. See below for some of the benefits of chiropractic care during pregnancy.

1. Proper Alignment

Not only can the chiropractor help align your spine, he/she can align your pelvis so it's in proper position for labor. This can also ensure proper positioning for your baby, which can make for an easier delivery for both you and your baby.

2. Pain Relief

Most pregnant women do not want to take medications to get a relief from pain related to their pregnancy. Chiropractic care can help relieve pain such as hip or back pain without the use of medications. Chiropractic manipulations are safe for pregnant women; however, it is a little more difficult to do these in the third trimester, according to the American Chiropractic Association. This is when your chiropractor may have you try acupuncture or massage over manipulation, which can also be beneficial in relieving pain.

3. Provide Exercise Advice

Your chiropractor may give you specialized exercises that can help you during pregnancy. Exercises such as gentle stretches, walking, and other cardiovascular exercises can help strengthen the muscles you will be using while pregnant and can help make labor easier on you. Be sure to speak to your OBGYN before beginning a new exercise routine, especially if you were not active before pregnancy.

4. Provide Ergonomic Advice

Your chiropractor may advise you to sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees to help relieve pain in your lower back and to keep your spine properly aligned. If you work at a desk, your chiropractor may advise you to sit with your feet up to keep blood flowing properly to your lower extremities and to help prevent swollen feet. Your chiropractor may also advise you to wear comfortable, flat shoes rather than high heels, which can make you unsteady on your feet and create postural imbalance. If you have other children, your chiropractor may advise that you pick them up by bending at the knees and not the waist to prevent injury to your back.

A trip to the chiropractor during pregnancy can help relieve pain associated with pregnancy, and it can also be helpful after pregnancy to help tighten the muscles that were loosened during childbirth. For more information, speak with professionals like the North Star Chiropractic Center.

Share