Treatment While Pregnant
/Chiropractic and Massage While Pregnant!?
There are a lot of myths regarding the treatment of women when they are pregnant. And unfortunately, it is these myths that cause suffering pregnant women to not get the treatment that would make them more comfortable throughout the whole pregnancy. Some of these myths will be discussed in this blog. At any time, I have around five pregnant women on treatment plans right up until their due date allowing them to get through the pregnancy a little easier.
Myth: No treatment at all!!
Some people think pregnant women are fragile and need to be treated as such. This is not the case and can be treated accordingly. Treatment can be very beneficial for women when they are pregnant. When women gain pregnancy-related weight, it changes postures and adds strain to certain parts of the body (especially the low back and hips). Chiropractic and massage therapy are recommended and are safe during pregnancy to help with these changes and make them more comfortable for the whole process.
It is true that during the first trimester, the chance of miscarriage is higher over-all, so most therapists will err on the side of caution during this time. The person can still be treated but techniques or pressure may be changed slightly. After the first trimester, there is much less risk of miscarriage and treatment can resume as before the pregnancy.
Myth: Don’t touch my ankles!!
Although it was previously believed that certain spots on the ankles may cause labour to occur, that has been disproven. After gaining pregnancy-related weight that women are not used to, wouldn’t you want your feet treated? Pregnant women normally appreciate their feet and ankles being treated due to the increased weight and swelling that may occur.
Compression Stockings
Compression stockings are an excellent way to decrease swelling due to pregnancy. They are considered graduated compression so they will be able to bring the fluid up the legs and make the women more comfortable.
How does a massage work if I can’t lay on my stomach?
We have a pillow for that! Many pregnant women are unable to find a comfortable position when laying down so when they come for massage we use a pregnancy pillow. This allows them to lay on their stomach which they often enjoy. I constantly hear phrases like ‘I have been thinking about laying in the pillow all week!’ With the pillow, the therapist can perform the exact same massage as if the woman was not pregnant.
Pregnancy Pillow
If you are pregnant, or have any questions, please feel free to contact the clinic. Be more comfortable during your pregnancy!