What is the Webster Technique?
“The Webster technique is a specific chiropractic analysis and diversified adjustment used in pregnancy which reduces nerve system stress and improves pelvis neuro-biomechanical function. Its purpose is to detect and correct sacral subluxation and sacroiliac joint dysfunction. Sacral dysfunction can contribute to a difficult labour (dystocia) and thus correcting this and balancing the pelvis may allow for a safer, easier birth.” (ICPA: http://icpa4kids.org)
In simpler terms, the Webster Technique is a technique that can be used on anyone, but has been shown to be especially helpful in pregnancy to help with aligning the pelvis and decreasing the stress and strain of the ligaments attached to the uterus. We check for stiffness of your pelvis to look for an imbalance in tightness and rotation of your sacrum, the triangular bone at the base of the spine that connects your two ilium bones together. By correcting the misalignment and releasing the tightness of the shortened ligaments, it allows the whole pelvis to balance out and ultimately allows the baby to position itself in the most optimal position for birth.
There are many reasons why chiropractic care during pregnancy may be helpful for you and the growth of your baby. Whether you are feeling discomfort or just looking to have a healthy pregnancy, having an assessment by a Webster-certified Chiropractor can help alleviate your pain/dysfunction, thereby decreasing your chances of having a difficult labour. Research has shown that Chiropractic care can help relieve pain during pregnancy, significantly reduce back pain during labour and reduce the need for narcotic pain medications.
“75% of women who received chiropractic adjustments during their pregnancy stated that they experienced relief of their pain and discomfort.”
Symptoms that may bring a pregnant woman into a Chiropractic Office
- Low back pain
- Sacroiliac pain – one or both sides
- Pain getting in and out of bed, putting weight on one leg
- Pubic symphysis pain
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Sciatic Neuralgia – pain around the pelvis with radiating pain down the leg
- Constipation
- Headaches
- Overdue
Helpful tips to do at home during pregnancy
- Massaging the round ligaments daily
- Rocking your pelvis forward when sitting in a chair
- Standing with hands on a chair – move your pelvis in a “figure 8” motion – keeps the SI joints mobile
**Visit your chiropractor to learn how to perform these home techniques properly**