If ever there is a time for chiropractic’s safe and drug-free approach to health care it is during pregnancy. Take optimal care of yourself and your baby.

• Lower back pain
• Sacroiliac joint problems
• Mid-back and neck pains
• Headaches
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Tendonitis
• Groin and leg pains

Safe and gentle techniques to relax and align the back can be modified for each patient right up to the time of delivery. Home exercises, postural and nutritional advice is provided. We have pregnancy massage available.

• Less back pain and discomfort.
• Shorter labor. Chiropractic care was shown to shorten delivery times by 24% in the first pregnancy and 39% in later pregnancies.
• Significantly less back pain during labor.

Care for yourself and your baby-to-be should start before conception. Nutrition is your first key. Women who take a multi-vitamin with a minimum of 4mcgs of folic acid have a 40% lower risk of birth defects. Omega 3 oils throughout your term improve overall health for the mother (including a lower risk of post-partum depression) and the baby (higher IQ and better immune function).

If you are thinking of having a baby start taking a multi-vitamin now and increase your fruits, grains, vegetables, and high quality protein. Do not smoke or drink alcohol.

A chiropractic evaluation can ensure that your spine and hips will be up to the challenges of 9 months of pregnancy and delivery. We will set you up on an appropriate strengthening and stretching exercise program.

Your body has just gone through 9 months of postural changes and weight gain, coupled with the strain of delivery or C-section. The first 2 to 6 weeks after delivery are a key time to have your spine and pelvis checked as the ligaments that hold it together have been loosened by your hormones.

Lining up the spine and pelvis in this early stage is key. Studies show that 50% of women with chronic lower back pain developed it after a pregnancy. It doesn’t have to be so! Early chiropractic care and proper exercises can help restore your body.

We encourage you to try and breast feed, as it is best for you and your baby. Proper nutrition is vital. If your baby is on a formula be sure to look for omega 3 enriched types.

A complete spinal and body evaluation for your newborn is also very important. In spite of the best efforts of your midwife or doctor your infant’s spine, particularly the neck, may be placed under stress during delivery. By using very gentle techniques spinal problems can be corrected ensuring the best start for your child.

1. Avoid holding your breath.
2. Avoid sudden changes in level or posture, such as standing up to quickly.
3. Always keep your back in neutral position, and include pelvic tilts whenever possible.
4. Avoid long periods of lying on your back. Roll onto your side if your hands start to tingle.
5. Always wear running shoes when you are exercising. In the house wear supportive shoes or sandals with a good arch.
6. Wear a strong supportive bra. Note the size may change putting pressure on your shoulders.
7. Exercise within your target heart rate. Get help if you are unsure of this.
8. Remember to lie down and stand up correctly. By slightly squeezing your buttocks together and tightening your abdominal muscles you will move much easier.
9. Check for abdominal muscle separation regularly. Ask your chiropractor for details. If separation starts, don’t do abdominal exercises until instructed.
10. Always bend one knee when on your back or have a pillow under the knees.
11. In this case, pain means stop exercising.
12. Eat some form of carbohydrate 1 –2 hours before your exercise class to prevent low blood sugar and lightheadedness or dizziness.
13. Take a break when you feel tired. It’s good for you.
14. If you feel pain in your pelvic/groin areas, do pelvic tilts on all fours (pelvic rocks).

The following symptoms or conditions are serious enough to merit stopping your exercise program and seeking an immediate consultation with your doctor.

1. Any signs of bloody discharge from the vagina.
2. Persistent contractions following exercise. (Exercise frequently brings on short periods of Braxton Hicks contractions. If these persist for more than 24 hours following exercise, medical advice is required).
3. Any “gush” of water from the vagina (premature rupture of membranes).
4. Sudden swelling of the ankles, feet, hands and face.
5. Infection.
6. Swelling, pain and redness in the calf of the leg (possible phlebitis).
7. Severe nausea or vomiting.
8. Anemia.
9. Hypertension.
10. Toxemia. (May be evidenced by headache and swollen feet)
11. Heart disease. Check with your doctor first.
12. Problems in prior pregnancies. (Review with your chiropractor).