Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy

Chiropractic care during pregnancy can help expectant mothers with all the pains and aches that pregnancy brings. During pregnancy, a hormone called Relaxin (peaks during first trimester) makes all of the muscles, ligaments and joints much more relaxed.   With each trimester, their body then undergoes significant biomechanical changes in their spine in order to support their growing baby. Areas of their spine that become most affected are the neck, back, wrists and abdomen.

Pregnant women often experience symptoms such as:

• Neck Pain
• Headaches
• Upper back Pain
• Lower back pain
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Abdominal Pain (round ligament pain)
• Sciatica (link to Sciatica section)

How Chiropractic can help during Pregnancy

Chiropractic care is safe during pregnancy and offers an effective and natural solution to pain relief. There are various gentle Prenatal Chiropractic techniques that can help support expectant mothers and their growing baby.  Webster technique is a specific Chiropractic Sacral Analysis and Diversified adjustment that helps to decrease the effects of sacral subluxation/SI joint dysfunction that often occurs during pregnancy. It helps to promote normal physiological function of both the mother and baby throughout pregnancy and birth.  Alignment of the pelvis also helps to decrease labour time.  Thompson technique is also another gentle Chiropractic technique that utilizes drop pieces to correct the spine and pelvic area.

At Clarity Wellness Chiropractic, we love seeing our mothers-to-be have the best, pain-free pregnancy they can have. Dr. Clarise Chan, our Etobicoke Chiropractor, is an expert in spinal-related issues and has been in clinical practice over 10 years. She has a certification in Webster’s Prenatal Technique and has been trained through various courses for Pediatric (Children) Chiropractic care. We are a family-based Wellness Chiropractic clinic in Etobicoke that is honoured to see our community become healthier, one family at a time. Book your Prenatal Chiropractic assessment today!

How Chiropractic Can Help During Pregnancy

Chiropractic care is safe during pregnancy and offers a practical and natural solution to pain relief. Various gentle Prenatal Chiropractic techniques can help support expectant mothers and their growing baby.

The Webster Technique

The Webster technique is a specific Chiropractic Sacral Analysis and Diversified adjustment that helps to decrease the effects of sacral subluxation/SI joint dysfunction that often occurs during pregnancy. This technique:

  • Helps promote the normal physiological function of both mother and baby
  • Supports optimal pelvic alignment throughout pregnancy
  • May contribute to more comfortable positioning for the baby
  • Can help decrease labour time through proper pelvic alignment

The Thompson Technique

The Thompson technique is another gentle Chiropractic approach that utilizes specialized drop pieces to correct the spine and pelvic area. This technique is particularly beneficial for:

  • Reducing stress on the spine
  • Providing gentle, low-force adjustments
  • Accommodating the changing body during pregnancy

Benefits Throughout Your Pregnancy Journey

First Trimester (Weeks 1-12)

During early pregnancy, chiropractic care can help with:

  • Managing morning sickness through nervous system balance
  • Addressing early postural changes
  • Supporting your body as hormones begin to shift
  • Establishing a foundation for a healthy pregnancy

Second Trimester (Weeks 13-27)

As your baby grows, we focus on:

  • Maintaining spinal alignment as your center of gravity shifts
  • Addressing mid-back discomfort from breast changes
  • Supporting round ligament comfort
  • Optimizing pelvic balance for the baby’s growth

Third Trimester (Weeks 28-40)

In preparation for birth, chiropractic care helps with:

  • Ensuring optimal pelvic alignment for delivery
  • Managing increased lower back stress
  • Supporting comfortable sleep positions
  • Preparing your body for labour and delivery

Safety and Comfort: Our Priority

Is Chiropractic Safe During Pregnancy?

Absolutely. Chiropractic care is widely recognized as a safe, drug-free approach to managing pregnancy discomfort. Our techniques are modified explicitly for pregnancy:

  • No abdominal pressure
  • Specialized pregnancy pillows for comfort
  • Gentle, low-force techniques
  • Adjustments tailored to each trimester

What to Expect During Your Visit

Your comfort is our priority. During your prenatal chiropractic visits:

  • Initial Assessment: We’ll discuss your pregnancy journey, any discomfort, and your health goals
  • Gentle Examination: Using pregnancy-safe positioning and techniques
  • Customized Care Plan: Tailored to your specific needs and stage of pregnancy
  • Comfortable Positioning: Special pillows and tables accommodate your growing belly
  • Education: Tips for at-home comfort and optimal positioning

Supporting Your Entire Pregnancy Journey

Pre-Conception Care

Chiropractic care can also support those trying to conceive by:

  • Optimizing nervous system function
  • Ensuring proper pelvic alignment
  • Supporting overall wellness and stress management

Postpartum Recovery

Our care doesn’t end at delivery. Postpartum chiropractic helps with:

  • Restoring proper spinal alignment after delivery
  • Addressing nursing posture concerns
  • Supporting recovery from cesarean or vaginal delivery
  • Managing the physical demands of caring for a newborn

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I start chiropractic care during pregnancy?
You can begin at any stage of pregnancy. Many women start in their first trimester to establish a foundation for comfort throughout their journey.

How often should I come in?
This varies based on individual needs. Typically, we see patients monthly in early pregnancy, increasing to weekly visits as you approach your due date.

Can chiropractic care help if my baby is breech?
The Webster Technique helps optimize pelvic balance, which may allow the baby to move into optimal positioning naturally.

Will adjustments hurt?
Our prenatal techniques are gentle and designed for comfort. Most patients find adjustments relieving rather than uncomfortable.

Why Choose Clarity Wellness Chiropractic

At Clarity Wellness Chiropractic, we’re committed to helping our mothers-to-be have the best, pain-free pregnancy possible. Dr. Clarise Chan, our Etobicoke Chiropractor, brings:

  • Over 10 years of clinical experience
  • Certification in Webster’s Prenatal Technique
  • Specialized training in Pediatric Chiropractic care
  • A passion for supporting growing families

We are a family-based Wellness Chiropractic clinic in Etobicoke that is honoured to see our community become healthier, one family at a time.

Take the First Step Toward a Comfortable Pregnancy

Every pregnancy is unique, and you deserve personalized care that addresses your specific needs. Whether you’re experiencing discomfort or want to optimize your pregnancy wellness, we’re here to support you.

Book your Prenatal Chiropractic assessment today and discover how gentle, effective chiropractic care can transform your pregnancy experience.