Prenatal & Postnatal Care
Chiropractic care during pregnancy is a holistic approach that focuses on optimizing the health and comfort of expectant mothers and new moms. By addressing the body’s physical changes during pregnancy and after childbirth, our chiropractors in Bend can support better alignment, reduce discomfort and promote a healthier pregnancy. Here's an overview of the types of chiropractic treatments offered, their benefits, safety considerations and guidance on timing and frequency of care.
Types of Chiropractic Treatments During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, a woman’s body undergoes significant changes to accommodate the growing baby. Chiropractic treatments focus on these transformations, helping to alleviate pelvic and back pain and improve mobility. Common techniques include:
- Webster Technique: A specialized chiropractic method designed to align the pelvis and reduce uterine tension. This can help with optimal fetal positioning and potentially ease delivery.
- Pelvic Adjustments: Gentle techniques to maintain proper alignment of the spine, pelvic balance, reducing lower back pain and pressure on the sciatic nerve.
- Soft Tissue Therapy: Massage and myofascial release to ease muscle tension in areas such as the lower back, hips and shoulders.
- Tailored Spinal Adjustments: Safe, modified chiropractic adjustments using specialized tables and tools to accommodate a pregnant belly while restoring proper spinal alignment.
Postnatal Chiropractic Care
After childbirth, a woman’s body continues to adjust. Postnatal chiropractic care can help the body heal and regain strength by addressing issues such as:
- Pelvic Realignment: Restoring pelvic stability after delivery to support postpartum recovery.
- Postural Correction: Addressing postural changes from carrying the baby, breastfeeding or lifting, which can lead to neck, shoulder, and back pain.
- Core Strengthening: Techniques to support the recovery of core muscles, including the abdominal and pelvic floor, essential for postpartum wellness.
- Scar Tissue Mobilization: For those who’ve had a cesarean delivery, gentle techniques can assist with the healing process.
Benefits of Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy and Postpartum
Chiropractic care offers numerous benefits for pregnant and postpartum women, including:
- Reduced Back and Joint Pain: Gentle adjustments can relieve pregnancy-related discomfort in the back, hips and joints.
- Improved Mobility: Restoring alignment supports better movement and flexibility.
- Enhanced Comfort During Labor: Proper pelvic alignment may contribute to shorter labor durations and easier delivery.
- Faster Postpartum Recovery: By addressing musculoskeletal issues, chiropractic care can help new mothers regain strength and stability more quickly.
- Better Sleep and Relaxation: Pain relief and reduced tension can promote improved sleep, relaxation and a more comfortable pregnancy.
Safety Considerations
Chiropractic care during pregnancy is generally safe when performed by trained, experienced chiropractors. Our Bend chiropractors are certified in prenatal care techniques and discuss any specific concerns or conditions, such as high-risk pregnancy, with both your chiropractor and obstetrician. Techniques and tools are adapted to protect the safety and comfort of both mother and baby.
When to Start Chiropractic Care & Frequency of Visits
Many women begin chiropractic care during the first trimester to establish a foundation for a healthy pregnancy. Regular adjustments are common throughout, with adjustments increasing in frequency during the third trimester to prepare the body for labor.
Postpartum, regular chiropractic care can start within the first few weeks after delivery, depending on how the mother feels and her recovery progress. Frequency will vary based on individual needs but often begins with weekly visits and tapers off as recovery continues.
Chiropractic visits during pregnancy offers a natural and supportive approach to managing the physical demands of motherhood. With its focus on alignment, mobility and comfort, chiropractic care can enhance the journey of pregnancy and beyond.