Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy

During the course of pregnancy, a woman's body undergoes innumerable changes biochemically and structurally which can create postural strain and neck and back pain. A brief look at the anatomy of the spine provides insight as to why chiropractic adjustments can facilitate a healthier, more comfortable pregnancy.

The Vertebral Column

The vertebral column is a strong, flexible rod composed of a series of bones called vertebrae which enclose a protect the spinal cord, support the head, and serve as an attachment for the ribs and muscles of the back. This "spine" is able to rotate and move anteriorily, posteriorily and laterally. The vertebral column shows four normal curves which increase it's strength, help maintain balance in the upright position, absorb shock, and help protect the column from fracture.

The spinal cord, which courses down the center of this column conveys sensory impulses from the peripheral nerves to the brain and conducts impulse from the seat of the Central Nervous System, the brain, to all of the peripheral nerves. When an electrical impulse is stimulated in the brain, it travels a neural pathway in the spinal cord. Misalignment of this vertebral column can create pressure on the spinal nerves, irritating the surrounding tissue and causing impeded nerve flow, discomfort and/or pain.

The Reasoning
 

Over the course of a forty week gestation, a mother's weight gain will ideally reach somewhere between 30-40 lbs. This increase in weight can create spinal misalignment and/or postural distortions which in turn affect nerves, muscles and mobility of joints. As the bulk of this weight is deposited in the abdominal area, the mother's center of gravity shifts forward. In order to compensate, the natural curves of the spine, particularly in the lumbar region, become exaggerated causing "low back pain".

The hips may also expand laterally to help stabilize the body, putting pressure on the sacro-illiac joints. The hormones of pregnancy cause muscles, ligaments, cartilage (such as the symphisis pubis), and even bones to "soften" and become more pliable. Pelvic bones "slip" and can become more easily displaced and/or fixated. In addition, certain round ligaments attach to pelvis bones and then to the uterus as it enlarges with the growth of the baby. When these ligaments are strained or torqued, as with sudden movement or "rolling over," they can cause even more discomfort for the pregnant mother.

Benefits of prenatal Chiropractic Care can:

1. Correct vertebral misalignment and relieve pressure with gentle and effective adjustments.
2. Help ensure that pelvic bones are properly aligned, facilitating a quicker, easier delivery.
3. Re-establish the natural position and mobility of the joints.

Shelly Girard, B.S., L.M.T., L.M., C.P.M.

Other Articles of Interest:

"Pregnancy and Chiropractirc Care" - American Pregnancy Association

"Can I undergo Chiropractic Adjustment While Pregnant?"- Kelly Shanahan, MD, IVillage.com

"Improving your Pregnancy With Chiropractic" - FirstBabyMall.com

"Chiropractic Care and Pregnancy" - Pregnancy-Info.net