Webster Technique, Pregnancy Care

The Webster technique is a specific approach to chiropractic care for expectant mothers. During pregnancy the mothers body undergoes a variety of changes to accommodate the growing baby, these changes include growth of the uterus, adaptation of the pelvis and organs, postural change and hormonal changes.

A hormone called Relaxin is secreted during pregnancy to relax the ligaments and connective tissues of the spine, sacrum, and pelvis. This is done so that the pelvis and the uterus may stretch to accommodate a growing baby. Imbalances in the shape of the pelvis or the sacrum and of the ligaments that hold the uterus and bony structures may cause low back pain, thoracic pain, neck pain and pelvic pain during pregnancy.

If the shape of the uterus or the ligaments that hold the uterus are not in balance, there may be restricted space for the baby to move around and so the baby may favor one side or one position. This can put undue stress on pelvic structures and cause problems for the mother or may limit the baby’s ability to engage, and as such breech position may be the outcome.

Decrease Pain and Discomfort

Chiropractic assessment and treatment during this exciting time can decrease the pain and discomfort associated with different stages of pregnancy. This is important for the mother as pain relief administration is limited due to pregnancy and the effects these chemicals have on baby. The chiropractic treatment (Webster Technique) may also create space and flexibility inside the womb that may allow the baby to move around and become engaged in the normal vertex position. Due to these effects of chiropractic treatment, it is common that the mother experiences an easier pregnancy, can achieve a natural birth and lower labor times. All of these have beneficial effects on both baby and mum.

Post Natal/4th Trimester: Even women who have never before experienced back pain may develop what is known as "mommy neck" or "mommy back" following childbirth as they care for their newborn infants. Postpartum chiropractic care is an effective, safe way to relieve these symptoms and improve overall well-being.   

More Information:

https://icpa4kids.com/training/webster-certification/webster-technique 

Pathways to Family Wellness: https://pathwaystofamilywellness.org/ 

Cochrane. https://www.cochrane.org/