PRENATAL CHIROPRACTIC
The Webster Technique: Prenatal Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic adjustments during pregnancy can be a savior. The Webster Technique is a safe and popular chiropractic technique for expectant mothers.
The Webster Technique works by aligning the pelvis. When the pelvis is aligned this gives the baby the best opportunity to assume the proper position within the birth canal leading to a favorable birth outcome. This also provides relief of back pain and sciatica that is commonly associated with pregnancy.
The Webster Technique was developed by a chiropractor named Dr. Larry Webster over 30 years ago. Dr. Webster’s namesake technique involves a specific analysis, adjustment and soft tissue release. The Webster Technique became popular as women reported that their babies had flipped from a breech presentation to a head down presentation after being treated by the Webster Technique. This is how the Webster Technique gained a reputation as a “breech turning technique”.
Although the Webster Technique has grown in popularity as a non-invasive way to turn breech babies, the Webster Technique is NOT a “breech turning technique”.
The International Chiropractic Pediatric Association defines the Webster Technique as “a specific chiropractic analysis and diversified adjustment. The goal of the adjustment is to reduce the effects of sacral subluxation and or SI joint dysfunction. In so doing neuro-biomechanical function in the pelvis is improved.” Simply put, when the body is aligned it gives the baby the best opportunity to function as nature intends.
FAQS
IS CHIROPRACTIC CARE SAFE FOR PREGNANT WOMEN?
Chiropractic care and the Webster Technique are safe for both the mother and child. There are no forceful movements; only gentle pressure is used to encourage proper alignment of the mother. In addition, the Webster Technique is not a procedure to turn breech babies. However, many expectant mothers seek out Webster Certified Chiropractors when the positioning of the baby is less than ideal. It is the intent of the Webster Technique to create a balance in the pelvis that encourages the baby to get into the proper position for birth
IS THE WEBSTER TECHNIQUE PAINFUL?
No. Light pressure is used and the adjustments are very comfortable. Occasionally some of the contact points may be slightly tender to the touch, but not painful.
WILL CHIROPRACTIC ADJUSTMENTS CAUSE PREMATURE LABOR?
Chiropractic is safe for pregnant moms and will not cause you to go into labor early. The baby will come when the baby is ready.
WILL LYING ON MY BACK HURT THE BABY?
No. When you are examined by your OB or midwife you lie on your back. It is no different when you see a chiropractor. The amount of time spent lying flat on your back is minimized and is always governed by the comfort of the mother.
IF THE BABY TURNS AND I KEEP GETTING ADJUSTED WILL THE BABY TURN BACK AGAIN?
No. The Webster Technique aligns the pelvis giving the baby the best opportunity to achieve the optimal position for birth. This is why expectant mothers seek out chiropractors certified in the Webster Technique if they find out their baby is in a breech presentation. However, the adjustment is not turning the baby.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT WITH CHIROPRACTIC WHEN PREGNANT?
The body is going through a lot of transition between weight gain, postural stress and hormonal changes. The chiropractic care and specifically the Webster Technique is a great way to keep the mother healthy throughout all of these changes. It is important to maintain proper alignment in order to give the best opportunity for an intervention free birth. This is why we recommend chiropractic care throughout the pregnancy for all expectant mothers.