Why Expecting Mothers Choose Chiropractic Care

Pregnancy brings joy, but it can also bring discomfort. As your body changes to accommodate your growing baby, your spine and pelvis shift, often causing pain. At Sunrise Chiropractic in Twin Falls, we see many expecting mothers who seek relief from pregnancy-related discomfort without medication.

Prenatal chiropractic care offers a drug-free approach to managing pregnancy symptoms. Our gentle adjustments help maintain proper alignment, reducing pressure on nerves and allowing your body to function optimally during this important time.

Dr. Ward has specialized training in prenatal care techniques. Using methods specifically designed for pregnant women, we help mothers-to-be experience more comfortable pregnancies.

Is Chiropractic Care Safe During Pregnancy?

Many women ask us this important question. The answer is yes—when performed by a qualified professional with prenatal training.

Prenatal chiropractic care in Twin Falls is both safe and effective. At Sunrise Chiropractic, Dr. Ward uses techniques that:

• Avoid putting pressure on the abdomen
• Use specially designed cushions and tables for comfort
• Include gentle adjustments appropriate for pregnancy
• Require no twisting or sudden movements

The American Pregnancy Association recognizes chiropractic care as a safe option for pregnant women. Our approach focuses on balancing the pelvis and spine to reduce stress on your changing body.

Common Pregnancy Complaints We Address

Pregnancy can bring several uncomfortable symptoms that chiropractic care can help manage:

1. Low Back Pain

As your baby grows, your center of gravity shifts forward. This places extra strain on your lower back, often causing persistent back pain. Our gentle adjustments help maintain proper spinal alignment, reducing pressure on nerves and muscles.

2. Sciatic Nerve Pain

Many pregnant women experience sciatica—sharp, shooting pain that travels down the buttocks and legs. This happens when the growing uterus puts pressure on the sciatic nerve. Chiropractic adjustments can help align the spine and pelvis, reducing this pressure and providing relief.

3. Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Pain

The SI joints connect your spine to your pelvis. During pregnancy, hormones cause these joints to loosen, sometimes leading to pain and instability. Our targeted adjustments help maintain proper SI joint function, reducing pain and improving mobility.

4. Round Ligament Pain

As your uterus expands, the round ligaments that support it stretch, sometimes causing sharp pains in the lower abdomen or groin area. Chiropractic care helps balance the pelvis, reducing strain on these ligaments.

5. Joint pain

Pregnancy hormones loosen joints throughout your body to prepare for birth. This can cause discomfort in your hips, knees, and other joints. Our adjustments help maintain proper joint function despite these hormonal changes.

Safe Stretches for Expecting Mothers

Between visits to our Twin Falls chiropractic office, these simple stretches can provide additional relief:

Pelvic Tilts

1. Get on all fours with your hands under your shoulders and knees under your hips
2. Inhale, letting your belly drop down
3. Exhale, gently tucking your tailbone and rounding your lower back
4. Repeat 10 times, moving slowly with your breath

Gentle Side Stretches

1. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and knees slightly bent
2. Raise one arm overhead and gently lean to the opposite side
3. Hold for 20-30 seconds, breathing deeply
4. Repeat on the other side

Cat-Cow Stretch

1. Begin on all fours in a tabletop position
2. Inhale, looking up while arching your back downward
3. Exhale, tucking your chin to chest while rounding your back upward
4. Move slowly between these positions for 1-2 minutes

Always check with both your prenatal chiropractor and obstetrician before starting any new stretches during pregnancy.

Postnatal Recovery

After your baby arrives, your body begins another transformation. Postnatal chiropractic care can play a key role in your recovery, helping with:

• Realigning the spine and pelvis after delivery
• Reducing stress on the back during nursing and baby care
• Supporting the body as ligaments and joints return to pre-pregnancy condition
• Rebuilding core stability through specific exercises and adjustments

Many new mothers find that regular chiropractic visits help them recover more quickly and comfortably. Dr. Ward creates customized plans that address your specific postnatal needs.

Core Stability After Baby

Your core muscles stretch significantly during pregnancy. These simple exercises can help restore strength:

1. Gentle Pelvic Tilts: While lying on your back with knees bent, gently tilt your pelvis by pressing your lower back into the floor and then releasing. 
2. Diaphragmatic Breathing: Place your hands on your lower ribs and breathe deeply, feeling your ribs expand in all directions. This activates your deep core muscles. 
3. Modified Planks: Start with short holds in a modified position (from knees or against a wall) and gradually increase duration as strength improves. 

Always get clearance from your healthcare provider before beginning postnatal exercises.

Ready for a More Comfortable Pregnancy?

Pregnancy should be a time of joy, not discomfort. If you’re experiencing back pain, sciatica, or other pregnancy-related issues, we’re here to help. At Sunrise Chiropractic, Dr. Tyrel Ward provides safe, gentle care specifically designed for expecting and new mothers.

Take the first step toward a more comfortable pregnancy—schedule an appointment today for a prenatal chiropractic assessment. We’ll create a personalized care plan to address your specific needs and help you enjoy this special time.