When you’re expecting a child, your body will certainly let you know. For example, changes in the body can cause pregnant women to experience low back pain, muscle cramps, and other symptoms. Fortunately, you don’t have to brave through this discomfort without any relief. Instead, turn to a chiropractor for comprehensive care. Here are a few common questions that mothers-to-be have about this form of treatment.

FAQ About Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy

Is it safe?

Chiropractic care focuses on adjusting joints, muscles, bones, and tissues to alleviate a wide range of health concerns. Since this type of care involves physical adjustment, many women fear that it can be harmful to them or their developing baby. However, these claims have no basis.

According to the American Pregnancy Association, chiropractic care is safe for pregnant women when it is provided by a licensed practitioner. It’s also recommended that you check with your obstetrician to make sure you don’t have any complications that may interfere.

What pregnancy-related issues can chiropractors address?

Low back pain is one of the most common pregnancy complaints that a chiropractor can resolve. In many cases, this symptom can be relieved by realigning the spine, reducing muscle tension, or releasing pinched nerves. This service may also help with chronic muscle cramps, indigestion, and neck pain.

In the weeks leading up to your due date, your chiropractor can monitor your body and correct common issues that may complicate delivery—such as pelvic misalignment. Small adjustments can often be made to position the baby and prepare the birthing canal for an easier delivery.

What does treatment involve?

All chiropractic care is individualized to the needs of the patient. Before treatment, your provider will assess your body and posture to determine what may be causing specific symptoms. Once identified, the doctor will apply gentle force to manipulate spinal joints into correct alignment. Improved alignment can help relieve low back pain, improve nerve communication to alleviate nausea, reduce muscle inflammation, and restore mobility.

Other potential forms of care include massage, therapeutic stretching, and physical therapy to strengthen weak areas of the body.

What makes it better than alternatives?

Many women appreciate chiropractic care because it can alleviate problems without the need for surgery or medications that can interfere with pregnancy. By treating the underlying cause of the symptoms, chiropractors also often deliver relief that lasts longer than any pain reliever could provide.

Whether you’re suffering from morning sickness or low back pain, Family Physical Therapy & Sports Center offers chiropractic care services in Kearney, NE, to help you find relief. Serving patients of all backgrounds, these qualified professionals will customize treatment to relieve aggravating symptoms and improve overall comfort while you’re expecting. Visit this clinic online to learn more about their services, including physical therapy. For appointments, call a friendly team member at (308) 236-5884.