Chiropractic and Pregnancy
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Should you have chiropractic adjustments during pregnancy?
Yes. Chiropractic care can help you and your baby achieve a healthier pregnancy and delivery. The health benefits have been demonstrated in clinical studies. In one of the studies, conducted by Irvin Hendryson, M.D., it was shown that women who received chiropractic adjustments in their third trimester of pregnancy were able to carry and deliver with more comfort. Also, well-known orthopedist Per Freitag, M.D., conducted a hospital study that incorporated chiropractic adjustments during a patient's pregnancy. He found that the need for painkillers during delivery was reduced in half.
Women have special needs during pregnancy.
During pregnancy many physiological and endocrinological changes take place, all for the purpose of creating an optimal environment for the developing baby. This complex process involves every system of the pregnant woman's body. The protruding abdomen, duck-like walk, and increased lower back curve affect the musculo-skeletal systems. The pelvis changes early in pregnancy due to the release of estrogen or relaxin. These hormones cause ligaments to relax and soften, which with increased synovial fluid, widens pelvic joints. This increased mobility is not restricted to the pelvis only, but may be noticed in other joints as well. As the uterus enlarges and expands forward, the center of gravity is displaced. Subluxation of the spine may occur, and this results in associated muscle spasms and nerve pain. This change in posture puts more strain on the lower back and pelvis, which may result in lower back pain. Fifty percent of all women complain of lower back pain during pregnancy. Subluxations of the neck may occur as the neck compensates for the changes in the lower spine by moving forward. This results in various symptoms, including headaches, nausea, or insomnia.
When should you be checked for subluxations?
The best time to be checked for subluxations is before you would like to become pregnant. This will ensure proper pelvic and spinal alignment. If you are already pregnant, chiropractic adjustments can be given throughout your pregnancy and directly after labor and delivery.
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