Treatment for Pregnancy + Postpartum

Chiropractic care has been shown to provide relief to pregnant and postpartum women who are dealing with musculoskeletal complaints. The hormonal, physical and emotional changes associated during and after pregnancy can cause the woman’s body to be more vulnerable to aches and pains.

Chiropractic Adjustment

PRENATAL Chiropractic manipulation has proven to be safe and effective for pregnant women. The adjustment involves a gentle impulse applied to the pelvis. This allows for optimal function of the pelvis and sacrum, which make up the environment in which the baby will grow. Our doctors are trained in the Webster Technique, specifically created to treat prenatal patients. It can provide a more comfortable pregnancy for mother and baby.

POSTPARTUM As women transition to the postpartum stage, hormones will continue to shift immediately after birth and throughout the first couple of years postpartum, the musculoskeletal system is directly affected. High levels of the hormone Relaxin remain in the body up to one year after weaning. Relaxin causes ligaments to be relaxed (which allows the pelvis to expand during pregnancy) and this then results in tight muscles which kick in to help stabilize the mobile joints. While some joints become more mobile, others become restricted and tight. A great example is a new mother and father’s upper back and shoulder blade region. This area can become very “stuck” after holding the baby. This can lead to headaches, neck tension, shoulder blade pain and even numbness and tingling in the arms. A gentle chiropractic adjustment performed on this area can restore motion in the joints and decrease pain and discomfort associated.

Soft Tissue + Manual Therapy

PRENATAL Various soft tissue therapies are utilized on pregnant women. The techniques we use are meant to restore the muscles, tendons, ligaments and nerves to their normal function in order to decrease pain in the pelvis. Manual and soft tissue therapies are also beneficial when addressing other structures of the body that are affected by the increased load placed on a woman’s body.

POSTPARTUM During the postpartum stage, soft tissue therapy is beneficial in releasing pain and tension in the overused muscles, ligaments, tendons and nerves for the postpartum patient. A mother/father’s body is constantly placed under stress due to caring for children, the lack of sleep associated and trying to return to activity that they once enjoyed. This technique can be beneficial in stretching the tissue and allowing the bits of scar tissue that have developed to function more like normal tissue. This will decrease pain and ultimately increase function.

Trigger point therapy, instrument assisted soft tissue therapy (Graston, Rockblades, ConnecTX), and cupping, are just a few ways our doctors can help you with regions of pain and tension.

Therapeutic Exercise and rehabilitation

PRENATAL It is very important that women remain active throughout pregnancy. Traditional research suggested that women do not start a new activity during pregnancy, but for those who may have had a more sedentary lifestyle prior to conception, it is now evident that implementing a movement plan is vital to preparing the body for the feat of labor and delivery. This is one of the greatest athletic achievements of a woman’s life and training is crucial. The providers at Ashburn Natural Wellness are dedicated to preparing our mamas for this big day.

While modern medicine is necessary in the care of pregnant women, it can be challenging to navigate all of the information that is available to us. Dr. Tiffanie is committed to providing you with comprehensive care that includes hands-on treatment as well as assisting you in preparing yourself for this great journey.

POSTPARTUM Exercises and rehabilitation should be specific to the changes in the postpartum woman and are an effective way to rehabilitate and rebuild the connective tissue during this time. Exercises can help make activities of daily living more comfortable. We understand that it is a healing process and will meet you where you are in this stage to help you reach your goals.