CHIROPRACTIC FOR PREGNANCY: PAIN RELIEF FOR EXPECTING NYC MOMS

No two people are alike and this same sentiment can be applied to pregnancy. This journey is incredibly unique to you and your baby. How you prepare your body for this beautiful season, how you feel throughout, and how you choose to plan for delivery day should be a priority to your team of practitioners. Whether a natural birth, cesarean, hospital birth or home birth, it is vital to prepare your body to be ready for anything and be supported throughout the process. 

WHAT IS THE BENEFIT OF CHIROPRACTIC CARE DURING PREGNANCY? The goal of Chiropractic care during pregnancy is to support your body so that you feel comfortable through the changes that will take place over the course of 9 months. The goal is to maintain pelvic alignment and provide a stable environment for your baby to grow in. What will be addressed in sessions?

• Pelvic Alignment: Through gentle adjustments and myofascial release. 
• Spine Health + Posture: Specified movement to restricted areas of the spine and stability provided to areas of hyper-mobility and discomfort. 
• Strength: A doctor prescribed, safe and effective strengthening routine to prepare you for the physical demands of delivery day. 
• Mobility: Knowing how and what to mobilize so as to not over-stretch during each trimester. 
• Nervous System Regulation: Through breathwork, adjustments and pregnancy safe movement. 

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT AT PRENATAL CHIROPRACTIC APPOINTMENT? Each visit will be (and should be) individualized based on which week of pregnancy you are in, how you are feeling and what your goals are. A good provider will have multiple forms of treatment under their belt so you feel better walking out of the office than when you came in. Below is a breakdown of how I approach your visits: 

• Myofascial Release: Myofascial release aims to release areas of fascial constriction (trigger points) that can create compensations within larger muscle groups. Think of fascia as plastic wrap, if you put a kink in one spot, you will notice the rest of the plastic contort itself around this kink. This is exactly how fascia works! By releasing knots of tissue within fascia and muscle you regain optimal muscle activation, increase blood flow to the area, and improve overall movement. *It is important to note that too much release can cause more pain as the body is already releasing the hormone: relaxin. As your provider, it is my job to know what to release when and communicate ways you can support your body between sessions. 

• Adjustments: Please do not be alarmed by this, because adjustments during pregnancy are not the same as they would be for someone who is not. Adjustments during pregnancy are gentle and highly specific. The goal is to discern sacral positioning, improve thoracic spine mobility (mid back) and decrease pressure on the lumbar spine. Each visit will be different; dependent on how the body has been changing and accommodating the baby’s position. 

• Taping: Muscle taping is typically seen on athletes; however, taping for pregnancy has several benefits. Typically, moms notice significant relief with taping towards the end of the second trimester and into the third. Tape provides relief to the round ligaments and SI joints, thus taking pressure off of the back. Tape also allows for increased core activation and improved posture and sleep.  

• Strengthening: Strengthening during pregnancy is vital for several reasons. Perhaps you have a little one at home that still wants to be picked up. Maybe you have a desk job that keeps you stationary for long periods of time. Whatever the reason, there is no replacement for strength training. And strength training does not have to be achieved by pushing large weights around a gym. Simple, functional movements that target your core, glutes, back, etc. can help you maintain a pain free body through pregnancy and beyond. Furthermore, you counteract the high levels of relaxin hormone that is being released and  ensure that your joints do not become too mobile. 

WHY ARE CERTAIN TREATMENTS AVOIDED DURING PREGNANCY? Remember the relaxin hormone we discussed? This hormone is produced by the placenta and is vital during pregnancy as it is preparing for your joints to stretch and withstand the pressures of giving birth. If we add more “stretching” and “release” during this time, your body will be left feeling uncomfortable, unstable and likely in pain. As a result, certain offerings that are typically included in a session are avoided until you are in the postpartum phase. These include: Cupping, Graston and Foam Rolling. 

WHEN SHOULD YOU START SEEING A CHIROPRACTOR FOR PRENATAL CARE? 

Ideally, first trimester (if you do not already have an pre-existing relationship with a provider); however, you can start care at any time. One should also bear in mind that it is not necessary to be in pain to schedule a visit! In fact, alternative care such as Chiropractic is a wonderful way to prevent acute injuries/ pain. 

You know your body best, so work with the people who understand your goals and can help you get there. I, personally, opt to work with your doctors, doulas, midwives, trainers. The more we communicate with each other, the more well rounded your experience will be. If you are ready to start your Chiropractic journey, whether planning to conceive or already pregnant, reach out to the office in Union Square for a Consultation or schedule a Free Discovery Call! 

Yours In Health,

Dr. Monisha Mallik, D.C.