Dr. Jimenez has treated hundreds of pregnant individuals over the years. He touches on questions about treating pregnant patients in our borderland region. Is it ok? Are there dangers?
There is a big debate over the merits and safety of having chiropractic treatment during pregnancy. Some people claim that it is dangerous to both the mother and the developing baby, while others say it is safe and provides a variety of health benefits. The truth is that mothers that receive chiropractic care tend to have an easier pregnancy and delivery. This article from our El Paso chiropractic team will help to provide you with the information you need.
Chiropractic and Pregnancy
Just as it is safe and beneficial for infants, toddlers, teens and adults, chiropractic is also safe and beneficial during pregnancy. There is no danger to the baby and the benefits for the mom-to-be are quite substantial. Most El Paso chiropractors that go through the proper training, and have all of the required education to be licensed and practicing, have been trained to treat pregnant women. Some chiropractors specialize in adjusting pregnant women which means they may have more experience, but the majority have the necessary skills and knowledge.
Any woman that has been pregnant knows the stress that is put on your back, neck, hips, and knees. Even performing everyday tasks becomes a challenge as the uneven weight distribution can pull certain areas out of balance. Having regular chiropractic adjustments during your pregnancy will relieve much of the added stress placed on your spine, and can prevent nerves from being compressed and causing pain, numbness or tingling in your back, hips, legs, arms, or fingers. Since your posture is continuously changing as your belly grows, regular adjustments may also help with any imbalances this might create.
Tips You Can Follow
Chiropractic adjustments are great to keep your body balanced and feeling great during pregnancy, but you can do a lot to help yourself. Exercises like walking and swimming will keep the blood flowing and keep your muscles working during the course of the pregnancy. It’s important to stay safe, so check with your doctor if you’ve been inactive prior to becoming pregnant.
Avoid wearing heels while you’re pregnant because you’ll be less steady and they can accelerate any postural imbalances you might experience. Stick with flat sensible shoes whenever possible. Also be sure to observe proper lifting techniques for children or other objects. Bend from your knees at all times and if it seems too heavy, ask someone else to lift it for you.
To remove pressure from your lower back while sleeping, lie on your side with a pillow between your knees. If you have to sit at a desk during the day, use a footrest to take pressure off your feet and legs and try not to sit for longer than 30 minutes at a time without getting up and moving around. Schedule chiropractic treatments after you give birth to help with the healing process, as all your muscles, tendons, and ligaments are returning to normal.
