Pregnancy is both a wondrous and physically challenging experience for the expectant mother. Many women experience pain and discomfort throughout pregnancy and following the birth of a child. Fortunately, chiropractic treatment provides relief for many expectant mothers.
The most common symptom reported during pregnancy is low back pain. In fact, in the journal Obstetrics and Gynecology, one study indicated that over one-half of all pregnant women experience significant low back pain. Other symptoms that tend to occur during pregnancy and respond well to chiropractic care include:
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Headaches
Sciatica
Plantar Fasciitis
Tendonitis
The most common cause of low back pain during pregnancy is a condition known as “sacroiliac joint dysfunction” or “sacroiliac subluxation”. Subluxation is a Latin term meaning “partial dislocation”. The pelvis consists of three bones that move thanks to 3 separate joints. Two of these joints are located at the rear of the pelvis (left and right sacroiliac joints) while the 3rd is located at the front of the pelvis called the pubic symphysis (a symphysis is a type of joint). Without the movement provided by these joints it would be difficult to walk and nearly impossible to run.
As the pregnancy progresses more weight is transferred to the front of the abdomen. The mother must often lean backwards to counter this if she doesn’t wish to topple over! This constant, abnormal pressure on the joints of the pelvis can lead to significant dysfunction and pain.
The most effective way to alleviate this pain is to restore healthy motion and alignment to the pelvic joints. Chiropractic treatment is the method of choice to naturally correct sacroiliac joint function without the need for potentially harmful medication. In fact, studies show that 90% of pregnant patients experience relief for their low back pain following chiropractic treatment.
Dr. Donath can identify the proper areas involved and provide the necessary treatment based on your specific needs.
Chiropractic has been a safe and effective treatment option for pregnant patients for over 100 years.
