Family Chiropractic

Even so called “natural” birthing methods can stress an infant’s spine and developing nerve system. The resulting irritation to the nerve system caused by spinal and cranial misalignment can be the cause of many newborn health complaints.  Since significant spinal trauma can occur at birth, many parents have their newborns checked right away.

As the infant grows, learning to hold up the head, sit, crawl and walk are all activities that affect spinal alignment and are important times to have a child checked by a Doctor of Chiropractic. As the child begins to participate in regular childhood activities like skating or riding a bike, small yet significant spinal misalignments may occur. If neglected, the injuries during this period of rapid growth may lead to more serious problems later in life.

Subtle trauma throughout childhood will affect the future development of the spine leading to impaired nervous system function. Any interference to the vital nerve system will adversely affect the body’s ability to function at its best. One of the most common reasons parents seek care for their child is trauma from an injury of some sort. These misalignments may or may not result in immediate pain or symptoms.

Regular chiropractic checkups can identify potential spinal injury from these traumas, make the correction early in life and help avoid many of the health complaints seen later in adults. Proper spinal hygiene is an important key to better health.

Another sought out reason for care is the resolution of a particular symptom or condition. Parents seek care for conditions because they have heard from other parents that chiropractic care can help. It is important to understand that the Doctor of Chiropractic does not treat conditions or diseases. The expertise of the chiropractor is in checking the child’s spine for misalignments that impair nervous system function therefore affecting overall body function. The bones of the spine, the vertebrae, house and protect the spinal cord. The spinal cord is an extension of the brain and carries information from the brain to the body parts and back to the brain again. Misalignments interfere with the nerves’ ability to transmit this vital information. The nerve system controls and coordinates the function of all the systems in the body: circulatory, respiratory, digestive, hormonal, eliminative and immune system. Any aspect of health may be impaired by nerve interference. The chiropractic adjustment restores nerve system function allowing the body the ability to express a greater state of health and well-being.

There is plenty of excitement and preparation involved as you prepare for the birth of your baby, but that be overshadowed by pain and discomfort. There are a variety therapeutic options available to help – just ask your chiropractor!

Pregnancy Pains

Why am I in pain? Low back, pelvic and hip pain during pregnancy can be caused by a combination of mechanical, hormonal, and circulatory changes that put stress on your musculoskeletal (MSK) system. Canadian chiropractors have the expertise to treat MSK conditions and are uniquely qualified to relieve pregnancy pain and discomfort without the use of medication – (usually not recommended during pregnancy) as well as provide holistic advice to maintain health before, during, and after the baby is born.

Mechanical Changes

With a normal weight gain of 20-40 lbs., predominately around the abdominal region, most pregnant women experience a shift in their centre of gravity that puts stress on their lower backs. Your growing belly can increase the curvature (“lordosis”) of your lower spine which, in turn, affects your posture when your body overcompensates to regain balance. Your core abdominal muscles also stretch to accommodate the baby, and your back is left to support your increasing weight.

Hormonal & Circulatory Changes

The concentration of the hormone “relaxin” increases during pregnancy to help relax ligaments in preparation of labour and delivery. However, while pregnant, these changes can  contribute to low back pain and joint discomfort. Another contributing factor is the increase in blood volume (which increases up to 50%) and can lead to inflammation and water retention (edema).

Pregnancy Pain: Low Back, Pelvis & Hips

MSK pain is very common during pregnancy. In fact, of pregnant women, up to 90% experience back pain – generally within the low back, pelvic girdle region or both – with up to 35% classifying their pain as moderate, severe, or disabling and subsequently, affecting activities of daily living.¹

Tips for Expectant Mothers

In addition to gentle, non-invasive chiropractic treatment, there are some tips you can follow:

1. Exercise! Keep your core strong so it can support your spine. Ask your healthcare practitioner about the benefits of swimming, yoga or other low-impact exercise programs.
2. Sleep well! We know getting (and staying comfortable) in bed can be challenging as pregnancy progresses, but there are a few tips to help get restful and pain-free sleep, including: Using pillows – while side-sleeping, place a pillow between your knees to keep your spine and pelvis in a neutral position, hug a pillow to stabilize and prevent rolling forward, and continue to use a supportive pillow under your neck.
3. Think twice! Maybe put those fancy heels aside until after the baby is born, and instead, wear supportive footwear both indoors and out. Rest frequently with your feet elevated. Know your limits – don’t lift heavy objects (or toddlers) if you’re experiencing pain or discomfort – ask for help.

References:

Weis, et al. Best-Practice Recommendations for Chiropractic Care for Pregnant and Postpartum Patients: Results of a Consensus Process. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. 2021.