If you’re pregnant in Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, Troy, or Maryville and experiencing back pain, sciatica, or pelvic discomfort, you’re not alone. Studies show that 50-70% of pregnant women experience significant back pain during pregnancy.
The good news? Chiropractic care is not only safe during pregnancy – it’s highly effective for managing pregnancy-related discomfort and can even help prepare your body for an easier delivery. At Infinite Wellness & Chiropractic in Edwardsville, we’re certified in the Webster Technique and have helped hundreds of expectant mothers throughout Madison County have more comfortable pregnancies.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about pregnancy chiropractic care, including safety, benefits, what to expect, and when to start treatment.
Why Pregnancy Causes Back Pain and Discomfort
Pregnancy places unique stresses on your body, especially your spine and pelvis. Here’s why so many pregnant women in Edwardsville and surrounding areas experience pain:
HORMONAL CHANGES:
Your body produces relaxin, a hormone that loosens ligaments to prepare for birth. While necessary, this can cause:
- Joint instability
- Pelvic pain
- Lower back strain
- SI joint dysfunction
POSTURAL CHANGES:
As your baby grows, your center of gravity shifts forward, causing:
- Increased lumbar curve (swayback)
- Forward head posture
- Rounded shoulders
- Muscle imbalances and tension
WEIGHT GAIN:
The average 25-35 pound weight gain during pregnancy puts extra pressure on:
- Lower back and pelvis
- Hips and knees
- Feet and ankles
ROUND LIGAMENT PAIN:
As your uterus expands, the supporting ligaments stretch, causing sharp pains in your abdomen and groin.
SCIATICA:
The growing uterus can compress the sciatic nerve, causing:
- Shooting pain down the leg
- Numbness and tingling
- Weakness in the leg
How Pregnancy Chiropractic Care Helps
Chiropractic care during pregnancy is specifically designed to address these changes safely and effectively:
- SPINAL ALIGNMENT
Gentle adjustments maintain proper spinal alignment as your body changes, reducing nerve pressure and muscle tension.
- PELVIC BALANCE
The Webster Technique specifically addresses pelvic alignment, which:
- Reduces intrauterine constraint
- Provides optimal space for baby
- May reduce the need for interventions during delivery
- Can help breech babies turn naturally
- PAIN RELIEF
Chiropractic care effectively treats:
- Lower back pain
- Sciatica and leg pain
- Pelvic pain and SPD
- Round ligament pain
- Hip discomfort
- Neck and upper back tension
- IMPROVED FUNCTION
Better alignment leads to:
- Easier movement and mobility
- Better sleep quality
- Reduced swelling
- Improved digestion
- Enhanced overall wellness
- LABOR PREPARATION
Research shows that chiropractic care during pregnancy may:
- Reduce labor time (by up to 25% for first-time mothers)
- Decrease need for pain medication
- Lower risk of back labor
- Support optimal fetal positioning
Is Chiropractic Care Safe During Pregnancy?
YES! Chiropractic care is extremely safe during pregnancy when performed by a trained prenatal chiropractor.
SAFETY FACTS:
- No twisting or high-velocity adjustments
- Special pregnancy tables accommodate your growing belly
- Techniques are gentle and specifically designed for pregnancy
- Webster Technique is recognized by the American Pregnancy Association
- No pressure on the abdomen
- Can be done throughout all trimesters
RESEARCH SUPPORT:
Multiple studies confirm the safety and effectiveness of prenatal chiropractic care:
- No increased risk to mother or baby
- High patient satisfaction rates
- Effective for reducing pregnancy-related pain
- May improve pregnancy outcomes
At Infinite Wellness & Chiropractic, our doctors are certified in pregnancy chiropractic techniques and have extensive experience treating expectant mothers from Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, Troy, Maryville, and Collinsville.
What Is the Webster Technique?
The Webster Technique is a specific chiropractic analysis and adjustment designed to reduce the effects of sacral subluxation and SI joint dysfunction during pregnancy.
HOW IT WORKS:
- Evaluates sacral alignment
- Gentle adjustment to restore balance
- Addresses round ligament tension
- Optimizes pelvic alignment
BENEFITS:
- Reduces intrauterine constraint
- Allows baby to move into optimal position
- May help breech babies turn (success rate: 82% in published studies)
- Reduces back and pelvic pain
- Improves overall pelvic function
BEST FOR:
- Breech or posterior baby positions
- Pelvic pain and discomfort
- Previous difficult deliveries
- Optimizing birth preparation
When to Start Pregnancy Chiropractic Care
The short answer: As soon as you find out you’re pregnant – or even before!
PRECONCEPTION:
If you’re planning to get pregnant, chiropractic care can:
- Optimize pelvic alignment
- Address existing pain or dysfunction
- Establish a healthy baseline
FIRST TRIMESTER (Weeks 1-13):
- Safe to begin care
- Helps manage early pregnancy discomfort
- Addresses nausea and digestive issues
- Establishes relationship with your chiropractor
SECOND TRIMESTER (Weeks 14-27):
- Ideal time to begin if you haven’t already
- Body is rapidly changing
- Common time for back pain to develop
- Perfect for establishing regular care
THIRD TRIMESTER (Weeks 28-40):
- MOST IMPORTANT time for care
- Webster Technique most effective
- Prepares pelvis for delivery
- Manages increasing discomfort
- Weekly visits often recommended
POSTPARTUM:
Continue care after delivery to:
- Realign your body
- Address birth-related strain
- Support recovery
- Treat nursing-related neck/back pain
Common Pregnancy Conditions We Treat in Edwardsville
At Infinite Wellness & Chiropractic, we successfully treat:
LOWER BACK PAIN:
The most common pregnancy complaint. Chiropractic care provides significant relief without medication.
SCIATICA:
Shooting pain down the leg from nerve compression. Our gentle techniques relieve pressure and reduce inflammation.
PELVIC GIRDLE PAIN / SPD:
Pain in the pubic bone area. Webster Technique and pelvic adjustments provide relief.
ROUND LIGAMENT PAIN:
Sharp pains in abdomen/groin. Adjustments and soft tissue work reduce tension.
HIP PAIN:
From pelvic instability and muscle imbalances. We address the root cause.
CARPAL TUNNEL:
Fluid retention causing wrist pain. Chiropractic and stretches help.
HEADACHES:
Tension and hormonal headaches. Safe, drug-free relief.
BREECH BABY:
Webster Technique may help baby turn to head-down position.
NAUSEA / HEARTBURN:
Spinal adjustments can improve these symptoms.
What to Expect at Your Pregnancy Chiropractic Visit
When you visit Infinite Wellness & Chiropractic in Edwardsville for prenatal care:
FIRST VISIT (45-60 minutes):
- Pregnancy health history
- Discussion of symptoms and concerns
- Gentle examination (no uncomfortable positions)
- Evaluation of pelvic and spinal alignment
- Explanation of findings and treatment plan
- First gentle adjustment
Our special pregnancy tables have a drop-down section for your belly, allowing you to lie face-down comfortably even in late pregnancy!
FOLLOW-UP VISITS (15-20 minutes):
- Progress check
- Gentle adjustments as needed
- Round ligament release (if needed)
- Home exercises and stretches
- Positioning and labor tips
RECOMMENDED FREQUENCY:
- First/Second Trimester: Every 2-4 weeks
- Third Trimester: Weekly
- Can increase if needed for specific concerns
ALL TECHNIQUES ARE:
✓ Gentle and comfortable
✓ No twisting or cracking
✓ Specifically designed for pregnancy
✓ Completely safe for baby
✓ Effective for pain relief
Success Stories from Local Expecting Mothers
Frequently Asked Questions About Pregnancy Chiropractic
Is chiropractic safe during all trimesters?
Yes! Chiropractic care is safe throughout your entire pregnancy when performed by a prenatal-certified chiropractor. We use special techniques and tables designed specifically for pregnancy.
Will my OB/midwife approve?
Most OBs and midwives support chiropractic care during pregnancy. We’re happy to communicate with your birth provider and many refer patients to us.
Can it help my baby turn if they're breech?
The Webster Technique has an 82% success rate in published studies for helping breech babies turn. It’s most effective when started before 34 weeks, but we’ve seen success later too.
How much does pregnancy chiropractic cost?
Many insurance plans cover prenatal chiropractic care. We accept most major plans and verify coverage before your visit. Self-pay options available.
When should I stop chiropractic care during pregnancy?
You don’t need to stop! Many women receive adjustments right up until they go into labor. Some even come in during early labor for relief.
Will it hurt my baby?
No. Chiropractic adjustments during pregnancy do not involve any pressure on your abdomen. All techniques are gentle and safe for both you and baby.
Can I start care if I'm already in my third trimester?
Absolutely! It’s never too late to start. While earlier is ideal, we’ve helped many women who began care in their third trimester.
What if I have a high-risk pregnancy?
Chiropractic care is often beneficial even with high-risk pregnancies. We work closely with your medical team and modify techniques as needed. Always check with your OB first.
How is pregnancy chiropractic different from regular chiropractic?
We use gentler techniques, special pregnancy tables, and specific protocols like the Webster Technique designed for pregnant bodies. No twisting or high-velocity adjustments.
Do you treat postpartum issues too?
Yes! We encourage continued care after delivery to help your body recover, realign, and address any nursing-related neck or back pain.
Schedule Your Pregnancy Chiropractic Consultation in Edwardsville
- Webster Technique Certified
- Special pregnancy tables for your comfort
- Serving expectant mothers in Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, Troy, Maryville, and Collinsville
- Most insurance accepted (including pregnancy coverage)
- Same-day appointments often available
SPECIAL OFFER FOR EXPECTING MOMS:
Mention this article for $20 off your first pregnancy chiropractic visit!
