How Chiropractic Care Can Help Throughout Pregnancy

Pregnancy is certainly a transformative journey for women and some of the physical changes can bring about some discomfort. As the body undergoes the various stages of pregnancy, some women may experience back pain, pelvic discomfort, postural changes and many other issues. Chiropractic care can help alleviate some of the discomforts and can help women thrive during pregnancy.

At Logan University’s new Foot Levelers Women’s Health Clinic, led by Emily Kliethermes, DC, many patients are seen who are pregnant and are planning on becoming pregnant. Before pregnancy, clinicians work with women to get their bodies ready by making sure the pelvis is structurally in place.

“We also check the spine and remove any nerve interference from misalignments there,” said Dr. Kliethermes. “According to the Meric Chart, the lumbar spine is the origin of the nerves that supply the reproductive organs and we pay close attention to those levels.”

As patients enter the first trimester of gestation, some mothers experience morning sickness, so nutrition can be important during this time. Clinicians also help women navigate these symptoms for relief.

In the second trimester, the body is changing rapidly to accommodate the growing baby. “We offer chiropractic care to ensure the spine and pelvis are aligned, as well as discuss ongoing nutritional needs and exercises to do at home to alleviate any discomfort,” said Dr. Kliethermes.

As the pregnancy enters the third trimester, women begin preparing for labor and delivery and are usually pretty uncomfortable. “Changes in women’s bodies and center of gravity can cause lower back pain, mid-back pain and muscle strain so we work with them on providing some pain relief.”

In addition, there are adjustments and acupuncture points that can help with labor and delivery and ensure that when the baby is ready, the pelvis will spread as needed to make a smooth transition.

Chiropractic care can also help post-partum, as women’s bodies need to recover. “By addressing common discomforts along the pregnancy journey and supporting overall wellbeing, chiropractic care can be invaluable for women,” she said.