How the Webster Technique Can Alleviate Pain Among Pregnant Women
People of all ages, backgrounds, gender identities, and walks of life seek out chiropractic care to correct issues and relieve pain. While anyone can experience musculoskeletal pain, pregnant women often face immense challenges in this area. Because countless changes happen so rapidly during pregnancy -- including the physical stress of carrying a baby to term -- it's no wonder that many mothers-to-be experience significant pain.
But contrary to popular belief, you don't have to go through this process alone. The staff at a professional chiropractor clinic can provide you with ongoing treatment you need to stay healthy, active, and pain-free during your pregnancy. In fact, a recent study found that a particular technique, known as the Webster Technique, can be particularly effective for expectant moms.
Why Do Pregnant Women Need Chiropractic Care?
There are a number of major changes that occur in order to properly prepare for an infant's arrival -- and we're not just talking about designing the nursery. A bulk of these changes occur inside the pregnant woman's body and can cause problems if unaddressed. Pelvic adjustments, postural changes, shifts in back curvature and abdominal protrusion, and other issues can lead to misalignment in the spine, pelvis, or other joints. In many instances, this can lead to discomfort and pain. In fact, 50% of all pregnant women experience back pain during their pregnancy. But these misalignments can also reduce the space available for the growing child or even lead to delivery complications. Chiropractic specialists can work to ensure that these misalignments and other shifts are corrected in order to ease pain and create an optimal scenario for both baby and mother.
Understanding the Webster Technique
What is the Webster Technique? Many professional chiropractor clinics will offer services specifically geared towards pregnant women, with different techniques highlighted for specific purposes. The Webster Technique, in particular, involves soft tissue work and chiropractic adjustments to the sacrum (which is located at the base of the lumbar vertebrae and is connected to the pelvis). At the same time the chiropractic specialist performs these tasks, they will also apply a sustained thumb contact to a specific point on the patient's belly in order to release tension in the uterine ligament. Ultimately, this technique can improve the function of the pelvic inlet, which can help to accommodate the growing baby.
How Effective Is This Technique?
In a recent study, researchers found that pregnant women reported improved quality of life as a result of this technique. Not only did their musculoskeletal pain improve, but they also noted that depression, anxiety, sleep interruptions, social interaction, and overall physical functioning also improved as a result. In fact, these improvements were seen in an impressively short amount of time. Approximately 52% of patients showed signs of improvement one week after treatment, while 70% reported improvements one month after treatment. Wholly 90% reported improvements six months after being treated with the Webster Technique.
While more research should be done (and larger trials should be performed), this shows just how valuable the treatment provided by professional chiropractor clinics can be -- especially for pregnant patients. To learn more about how we can help alleviate pain and help you prepare for your child's arrival, please contact us today.
