Is Chiropractic care safe during pregnancy?

By: Dr. Maryam Noorivaziri, D.C. B.A.

As I am writing this today, 3 of my patients and 2 personal friends are awaiting the arrival of new additions to their families.  I enjoy helping pregnant women in their journey to motherhood through specific and gentle chiropractic care.

According to American Pregnancy Association, Chiropractic is not only safe but it is essential during and after pregnancy.  A woman’s body goes through a series of physiological and endocrinological changes during pregnancy. Some of these changes include protruding abdomen, increased low back curve, and pelvic changes which result  in lower back and pelvis mis-alignments. As the baby grows, the weight is projected forward which increases the lordodic curve in the lower back as well the the rest of the spine as compensation. The weight gain of 25-35 Ib. greatly increases the pressure on Sacroiliac joints resulting in pain and discomfort. These mis-alignments affect surrounding ligaments and the uterus. All of these factors contribute to decreased spinal stabilization and back pain complicated with sciatic pain during pregnancy.

Studies have shown that about 50% of pregnant women will develop lower back pain during pregnancy mainly the last trimester. (1-3) A study that was published in Journal of American Chiropractic Association in 2003 reported 75% of pregnant patients who received chiropractic care during their pregnancies stated relief from pain. (4) Studies also show that women seeking chiropractic care during pregnancy have on average, 31% shorter labor time. (5) Implementing chiropractic treatment during pregnancy may reduce chances of postpartum back pain. Continued chiropractic care after giving birth is beneficial and essential for restoring spinal biomechanics. (6)

Quick Tips for moms to be:

1. Seek chiropractic evaluation and treatment before you become pregnant to detect any spinal imbalances that could contribute to pregnancy discomfort.
2. Exercise at least 3 times per week for 30 min. Talk to your Chiropractor for a safe exercise plan.
3. Eat small portions 4-5 times a day. Food high in carbohydrate and protein. Supplement with Folic Acid before and during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects.
4. Pamper yourself. Get pre & post natal massages.
5. Consult your doctor of chiropractic today for a more specific Chiropractic, Exercise and Nutrition plan to help you maintain a healthy pregnancy.

References
______________________________________________________________________

1. Phillips C.J., Meyer J.J. Chiropractic care, including craniosacral therapy, during pregnancy: a static-group comparison of obstetric interventions during labor and delivery. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 1995;18(8):525–529. [PubMed]
2. Diakow P.R.P., Gadsby T.A., Gadsby J.B., Gleddie J.G., Leprich D.J., Scales A.M. Back pain during pregnancy and labor. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 1991;14(2):116–118. [PubMed]
3. Berg G., Hammer M., Moller-Nielsen J., Linden U., Thorblad J. Low back pain in pregnancy. Obstet Gynecol. 1988;71:71–75. [PubMed]
4. Shaw G. When to adjust: chiropractic and pregnancy. J Am Chiropr Assoc. 2003;40(11):8–16.
5. J.M. Fallon. Textbook on chiropractic & pregnancy. Arlington, VA: International Chiropractic Association; 1994: 52, 109.
6. Chalker H.M. Spinal compensation of pregnancy. Am Chiropr. 1993;15(3):23–26.