Calling all those who are pregnant, recently gave birth, or are a weight bearing human being with hip pain, this one is for you!
In short, the Webster Technique is a specific chiropractic analysis and adjustment that reduces nerve system stress, balances pelvic bones, muscles, and ligaments and optimizes the person's pelvic function in pregnancy and birth. Let's break each of these down a little further.
Any stress on the uterine nerves, which originate in the sacrum, can cause inadequate uterine function. This is most evident during labor, seen as poor contractions.
Some of the uterine ligaments attach to the sacrum (the bone above the "tailbone"). When the sacrum is restricted in mal-position, as any joint can be, it causes uneven pull on the uterus through these ligaments. This can cause the uterus to be distorted and may be restricting the baby's ability to get into the best possible position for birth. This may also be a reason why baby only wants to hang out in one spot and does not move much.
When it comes to the hips, any torsion can not only be painful but it changes the pelvic outlet, the area where baby must pass through for a vaginal birth. Even the slightest torsion changes the shape of the outlet, making for a smaller passage.
Even Williams Obstetrics, the leading obstetrics reference, tells us that difficult labor is caused by inadequate uterine function, pelvic imbalances, and baby mal-presentation.
Doctors of Chiropractic are seeing that sacral adjustments may improve uterine function, balance the pelvis, and reduce tension to the pelvic bones and ligaments.
When balance is restores to the mother's pelvis, her uterus and pelvis function better. This reduces undue stress to the birther's ligaments and muscles making pregnancy and birth more comfortable.
Pelvic balance also allows the optimal space for baby to grow throughout pregnancy.
The portrayals and stories of birth are not always pleasant. The birthing process in the U.S. has gotten a little out of touch. The methods have become a little extreme and the rate of unneeded C-sections has grown too large. Proper prenatal care and education can make a world of a difference. I encourage you all to pass this information along to someone you know.
To find a certified Webster Technique practitioner near you please visit:
For those in the Oak Park area, the best midwives and doulas can be found at:
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