Prenatal and Postpartum Chiropractic Care: Supporting Moms Every Step of the Way
Pregnancy is a time of incredible change for a woman’s body. Over 40 weeks, the body undergoes significant transformations, many of which place extra strain on muscles and joints. Unfortunately, many pregnant women don’t realize that they can, and should, see a chiropractor during this time.
Why Chiropractic Care is Important During Pregnancy
As pregnancy progresses, the body produces more relaxin—a hormone that increases joint laxity to prepare for childbirth. While this is a natural process, it can lead to instability in the pelvis and hips, placing additional stress on surrounding muscles.
Additionally, postural changes occur as the body makes room for the growing baby:
- An increased arch in the lower back (lumbar lordosis)
- A more pronounced curve in the upper back (thoracic kyphosis)
- Rounded shoulders due to shifting weight
These changes can result in:
- Lower back pain
- Upper back stiffness
- Hip and pelvic discomfort
Although these pains are common during pregnancy, they don’t have to be normalized. Chiropractic care can help reduce discomfort by ensuring that the pelvis, lower back, and hips are moving properly and are well-aligned.
Is Chiropractic Care Safe During Pregnancy?
One of the most common questions we hear is, “Is chiropractic care safe during pregnancy?” The answer is yes! Prenatal chiropractic care is safe and can be highly beneficial in reducing pain, improving mobility, and preparing the body for labor.
One specific technique, known as the Webster Technique, is designed to optimize pelvic alignment and may even encourage a breech baby to turn head-down.
Benefits of Prenatal Chiropractic Care
- Pain Relief: Gentle adjustments can alleviate lower back, hip, and pelvic pain, making it easier to move and stay active.
- Improved Mobility: Maintaining mobility is crucial during pregnancy, especially as walking helps prepare the body for labor.
- Preparation for Labor: Proper alignment of the pelvis and spine can support a smoother labor and delivery.
We’ve seen many pregnant patients who were struggling with severe pelvic and hip pain that limited their ability to walk. Walking is an essential activity during pregnancy, as it promotes spinal movement and overall wellness. Chiropractic care can help restore their ability to move comfortably.
Postpartum Chiropractic Care: Supporting Recovery
While moms receive plenty of medical attention during pregnancy, support often dwindles postpartum, aside from a six-week check-up. Many moms are left without guidance on how to regain core strength, overall body strength, and pelvic floor function after delivery.
Birth is a significant physical event that can be compared to a major athletic feat or even an injury. As such, postpartum recovery should be approached with care and progressive loading to rebuild strength safely. Chiropractors can guide new moms on:
- Safe exercises to begin before the six-week check-up
- Gradual core strengthening and pelvic floor retraining
- Managing postpartum aches and pains
You Deserve to Feel Your Best
Moms often prioritize their baby’s needs over their own, but self-care is equally important. Feeling strong and pain-free allows you to care for your baby better. Just because your body has changed doesn’t mean you have to live with pain or weakness.
You did something incredible by bringing a new life into the world—now it’s time to take care of yourself. With the right postpartum rehab, your body can become your superpower.
We’re Here to Support You
At Tip Top Health, we’re dedicated to supporting moms through every stage of their journey—from prenatal care to postpartum recovery. Our personalized chiropractic care plans ensure that you feel your best every step of the way.
Book your appointment today and let us help you move, feel, and live better!