Aligning Your Wellness: The Role of Chiropractors in a Healthy Pregnancy Journey

Chiropractic care during pregnancy is gaining recognition as an effective method to support the body’s changes and alleviate various discomforts. At Eyerly Chiropractic Offices in Hazleton, PA, we understand that pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it can also come with its own set of challenges. Here, we explore how chiropractic care can be a valuable companion during this transformative time.

Understanding the Changes

As many new mothers can attest, the muscle strains of pregnancy are very real and can be more than just a nuisance. The average weight gain of 25 to 35 pounds, combined with the increased stress placed on the body by the baby, may result in severe discomfort. Studies have found that about half of all expectant mothers will develop low back pain at some point during their pregnancies.

This is especially true during late pregnancy, when the baby’s head presses down on a woman’s back, legs and buttocks, irritating her sciatic nerve. For those who already suffer from low back pain, the problem can become even worse.

During pregnancy, a woman’s center of gravity almost immediately begins to shift forward to the front of her pelvis. Although a woman’s sacrum—or posterior section of the pelvis—has enough depth to enable her to carry a baby, the displaced weight still increases the stress on her joints. As the baby grows in size, the woman’s weight is projected even farther forward, and the curvature of her lower back is increased, placing extra stress on the spinal disks.

While these changes sound dramatic, pregnancy hormones help loosen the ligaments attached to the pelvic bones. But even these natural changes designed to accommodate the growing baby can result in postural imbalances.

The American Chiropractic Association offers the following tips to reduce and manage pain during pregnancy:

Exercise

• Safe exercise during pregnancy can help strengthen your muscles and prevent discomfort. Try exercising at least three times a week, gently stretching before and after exercise. If you weren’t active before your pregnancy, check with your doctor before starting or continuing any exercise program.
• Walking, swimming, and stationary cycling are relatively safe cardiovascular exercises for pregnant women because they do not require jerking or bouncing movements. Jogging can be safe for women who were avid runners before becoming pregnant—if done carefully and under a doctor’s supervision.
• Be sure to exercise in an area with secure footing to minimize the likelihood of falls.
• Stop your exercise immediately if you notice any unusual symptoms such as vaginal bleeding, dizziness, nausea, weakness, blurred vision, increased swelling, or heart palpitations.

Health and Safety

• Wear flat, sensible shoes. High or chunky heels can exacerbate postural imbalances and make you less steady on your feet, especially as your pregnancy progresses.

• When picking up children, always bend the knees and lift with a neutral spine (maintaining the natural curves of the spine without overextending). And never turn your head when you lift. Avoid picking up heavy objects, if possible.

• Get plenty of rest. Pamper yourself and ask for help if you need it. Take a nap if you’re tired, or lie down and elevate your feet for a few moments when you need a break. Pregnancy Ergonomics

• Sleep: Sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees to take pressure off your lower back. Full-length “body pillows” or “pregnancy wedges” may be helpful. Lying on your left side allows unobstructed blood flow and helps your kidneys flush waste from your body.

• Work: If you have to sit at a computer for long hours, make your workstation ergonomically correct. Position the computer monitor so the top of the screen is at or below your eye level. Place your feet on a small footrest to take pressure off your legs and feet. Take periodic breaks every 30 minutes with a quick walk around the office or block.

Nutrition

• Eat small meals or snacks every four to five hours—rather than the usual three large meals—to help keep nausea or extreme hunger at bay.
• Snack on crackers or yogurt—bland foods high in carbohydrates and protein. Keep saltines in your desk drawer or purse to help stave off waves of “morning sickness.”
• Supplementing with at least 400 micrograms of folic acid a day before and during pregnancy has been shown to decrease the risk of neural tube birth defects, such as spina bifida.
• Check with your doctor before taking any vitamin or herbal supplement to make sure it’s safe for you and the baby.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy

1. Alleviation of Pain: One of the most notable benefits of chiropractic care is pain relief. Many pregnant women experience back pain, pelvic pain, and sciatica as a result of the physical demands of carrying a child. Chiropractors can employ safe and gentle spinal adjustments to alleviate pressure on nerves, muscles, and joints, providing relief from discomfort.

2. Improved Pelvic Alignment: Proper pelvic alignment is crucial not only for the comfort of the mother but also for the baby’s positioning during the later stages of pregnancy. A misaligned pelvis can restrict space for the baby. Regular adjustments by a chiropractor can help maintain pelvic balance, potentially facilitating smoother labor experiences.

3. Reduction of Labor Duration: Some studies suggest that women who receive chiropractic care may experience shorter labor times. This improved efficiency can lead to a less exhausting delivery process and enhance overall birth experience.

4. Promoting Overall Wellness: Chiropractic care is about more than just pain relief. It encompasses a holistic approach to health that can support the immune system, enhance sleep quality, and reduce stress levels. This can be particularly beneficial for expectant mothers who are managing various physical and emotional challenges during pregnancy.

5. Support for Postpartum Recovery: Chiropractic care doesn't end with delivery. Postpartum women can also benefit from chiropractic adjustments to help their bodies recover from the strains of pregnancy and childbirth. Addressing misalignments and restoring function can improve recovery times and overall well-being.

Your Safe Space in Hazleton, PA

At Eyerly Chiropractic Offices, we prioritize the health and safety of our pregnant patients. Our experienced chiropractor is trained in specialized techniques that are safe for both mother and child. We create a comfortable and supportive environment, tailoring treatments to each individual's needs.

What to Expect

When you visit our office, our chiropractor will conduct a thorough assessment to determine the best course of action for your specific situation. Treatments will typically involve gentle adjustments and may include various modalities to enhance comfort. We will also provide guidance on exercises and stretches that are safe during pregnancy to further support your wellness journey.

Conclusion

Choosing chiropractic care during pregnancy can be a proactive step towards a healthier, more comfortable experience as you embark on the journey of motherhood. At Eyerly Chiropractic Offices in Hazleton, PA, we are dedicated to helping you align your wellness for both you and your growing baby. If you're interested in learning more about how chiropractic care can benefit you during this special time, don't hesitate to contact us for an appointment. Your health and comfort are our top priorities!