How Can Chiropractic Care in Pregnancy Help You?

Pain Relief:
Many women find themselves in significant musculoskeletal pain during pregnancy, and the primary strategy of their OBs is to tell them to rest and take Tylenol.
Some common pregnancy conditions are:
• Symphysis pubis disorder (SPD)
• Sciatica
• Sacroiliac joint dysfunction

Shorter Labor:
A study done in 1990 showed that women who were under Chiropractic care throughout their pregnancy had reduced labor times. First time moms experienced 25% less time in labor and birth, and moms with previous babies averaged 31% shorter labor times.

Reduced Occurrence of Caesarean Section:
Dr. Richards is a licensed practitioner of the Webster technique, a non-invasive, gentle technique for pregnant women, many of whom seek it out due to breech presentation.
The Webster technique corrects intrauterine constraint, which occurs when the proper shape of the uterus is constricted due to tight ligaments, rotated sacrum, or other external forces. When an intrauterine constraint is present, it can keep the fetus from attaining the proper head-down birthing position, which leads most often to a cesarean section. In fact, 13% of all cesarean sections in the US are due to breech positioning.
Performance of the Webster technique begins with an analysis of the relationship between the bones of the pelvis. Upon finding a restriction, a light-force chiropractic adjustment of the sacrum corrects the restriction. Dr. Richards will then analyze abdominal muscle tension or spasm and work to relax this tightening.

Here is what a few of his patients have said:

“I started seeing Dr. Richards when I was about 32 weeks pregnant because I had an aching back. After only a few sessions my back started feeling better. Dr. Richards took the time to explain what he was doing and told me about exercises that I could do at home. By the time I gave birth, I felt fantastic and ready to go. Besides being a great chiropractor, Dr. Richards is also a really nice person and I enjoyed every visit.” –Liz C.

“Dr. Richards was well educated about pregnancy and was able to explain what was happening to me. He treated me with respect and a gentle regard for my needs. I went into birth a little more comfortable and confident due to his care. It was a great alternative to taking pain medications during my pregnancy.” –Maggie S.

“I met Dr. Richards when I was pregnant with my first child. I was 40 weeks pregnant and had just learned my baby was breech. He was honest about the reality of my situation and I felt comfortable he would at least help ease my mind. Not even a version performed by my OB could turn the baby but those first appointments with Dr. Richards began a wonderful relationship. Now pregnant with my second child I see Dr. Richards regularly to help ease a variety of discomforts, from pain in my ribs and hips to general tension headaches and TMJ. He is a great listener and spends quality time with me at every appointment using massage and stretching as well as manipulation. I highly recommend him for any one pregnant or not.” –Liz L.

If you have any questions about chiropractic care during pregnancy, please contact us today at (203) 675-1644.