CHIROPRACTIC DURING PREGNANCY

During pregnancy, the body undergoes many changes, both physical and emotional, as the baby develops and the body prepares for giving birth. Some of the changes can result in physical symptoms such as morning sickness, heartburn and indigestion, backache and sciatica, and carpal tunnel syndrome.

Many of the aches and pains associated with the changes that the body undergoes during pregnancy, can be helped by chiropractic treatment. One of the most noticeable aspects which often causes back pain is the change in the posture as adaptations to the stance to accomodate the growing baby are made. Realigning the pelvic and spinal bones can help to take some of the strain off the joints. Shoulders, lower back and legs, are areas most affected by the change in posture. Another change which occurs during pregnancy is the softening of the ligaments. Whilst this process is perfect for giving birth, it does mean that the joints can come under additional stress.

 Through regular chiropractic treatment throughout a pregnancy, these symptoms can be kept to a minimum, and the pelvic girdle can be maitained in its optimum position in readiness for the delivery of the baby.

Joy works alongside Lesley McPherson at the Classical Pilates studio in Troon. She offers free pelvic alignment checks at the studio on a Sunday evening, as part of the Pilates in Pregnancy sessions that Lesley runs. For information when Joy is next available please contact her on 01292 287827 or email her at appointments@joyofchiropractic.co.uk

Joy has started her training to become an Ante-Natal Teacher with the National Childbirth trust (NCT). The NCT is the UK's leading charity for parents. Every year it supports thousands of new parents through the life changing experience of childbirth. The NCT is there to help parents through this transition by offering relevant information, mutual support and reassurance. www.nct.org.uk

CHIROPRACTIC AND MEDICAL RESEARCH ON SPINAL CARE DURING PREGNANCY.

It is a common observation that birthing seems to be more comfortable for women who were under chiropractic care during pregnancy. The following studies mention how common spinal problems are during pregnancy (up to 90%). The chiropractic, drug-less approach is ideally suited for pregnancy care.

The Effects of Chiropractic on Pregnancy and Labour; A Comprehensive Study.

FALLON J Proceedings of the world chiropractic congress. 1991; 24-31

The hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy can change the shape of the spinal curves and overall posture which can affect organ systems.

In this study Dr Fallon describes her work with 65 women who received Chiropractic care from at least the tenth week of pregnancy through labour and delivery. These women experienced mean labour times significantly reduced compared to controls.

Women who were primagravidae (first pregnancy) who received chiropractic care averaged 24% shorter labour times than average for primagravidae women.

Women who were multiparous (had had at least one child prior) averaged 39% shorter labour times versus the controls.

Back Labour; a problem solution for a painful situation. Phillips C. ICA Review July/August 1997

From 50-75% of pregnant women experience the acute, severe, low back pain labour. Dr Phillips writes, “many first time mothers mistakenly think that back-labour is what childbirth is supposed to feel like. Let me assure you, IT IS NOT. Dr Phillips offers a biomechanical approach to back labour, stating that “Back labour is not a very common finding in patients who receive chiropractic care.......throughout pregnancy.”

Dr Phillips offers approaches that will help the baby turn so as to prevent back labour and methods that a chiropractor, labour companion or any birth attendant may use to help a woman in labour relax the pelvis, reduce pelvic tension and permit a back labour presentation to turn the baby to a more natural position for delivery.

AMA study shows that pregnant women under chiropractic care have easier pregnancy and delivery. American Medical Association records released in 1987 during trial in US District Court Northern Illinois Eastern Division No 76C3777

Irvin Hendryson, MD a member of the American Medical Association board of trustees did a clinical study which revealed that pregnant women who received Chiropractic adjustments in their third trimester were able to carry to term more frequently and deliver children with more comfort.

This information was suppressed and never revealed to the public or media.

If you have any questions or concerns on how undergoing Chiropractic Care during Pregnancy can help, please do not hesitate to contact Joy  

Tel; 01292 287827        Email; appointments@joyofchiropractic.co.uk