The Webster chiropractic technique is not designed to turn babies who are in the breech position. Its purpose is to relax the muscles and ligaments surrounding the uterus, which allows the baby freedom of movement. Given the ability to move, babies tend to seek out the proper position for birth on their own. Often, the turning of a "breech baby" is simply a welcome side effect of the correct application of the Webster technique. That said, there is a spectacular case study from earlier this year, published in the Journal of Pediatric, Maternal, & Family Health. In this case, a 25 year old mother had been diagnosed with a baby in breech position at 31 weeks. The chiropractors who were consulted by the mother verified that the baby was in a breech position, and applied the Webster technique analysis and adjustment twice. After the first adjustment, the baby turned from a breech position (feet down) to a transverse position (baby lying horizontal). After the second adjustment, the baby turned from the transverse position to a vertex position (head down), which is the optimal position for a normal vaginal birth. The mother went on to deliver her baby naturally and in good health. (Read the full case study here.) Some mothers and babies tend to respond very quickly to the Webster technique, as in this case. Others may need more visits. This baby may have been more likely to turn because of the relative earliness of this case (it is considered more difficult for the baby to turn on its own after 34 weeks because of the size of the growing baby). However, the mother's prompt action after having been told by her pediatrician stood her in good stead: not only did early action before the baby outgrew the "window of opportunity" seem necessary to her, but the mother saved herself weeks of stress and worry about the looming C-section. Maternal stress can only harm both the mother and baby prior to delivery.
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The Webster technique is a chiropractic adjustment which is appropriate for weightbearing patients of all ages. It specifically analyzes the proper function of the large bone at the base of the spine called the sacrum. Please go to our Webster technique page for a full description of the technique and why it works. The Webster technique is especially popular among pregnant mothers preparing for the birth of their child. In regards to expectant mothers, Dr. Larry Webster, the founder of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) and discoverer of the Webster technique, reported that when a mother sought care and her baby was in a breech position, the restoration of pelvic neuro-biomechanics with this adjustment also frequently facilitated optimal fetal positioning. There are cases published in the chiropractic literature that support his theory. More research is needed and is currently underway by the ICPA. Please go to our Webster technique page for a full description of the technique and why it works. The best part of the Webster technique is how gentle it is. At Johnson Family Chiropractic, we are proud to offer chiropractic techniques that are safe, effective, and comfortable. The Webster technique merely requires the patient to lay comfortably during a brief analysis of the sacrum's positioning within the body. The doctor of chiropractic may, if joint dysfunction is seen, perform a gentle chiropractic adjustment that is safe for both the mother and baby (if the patient is pregnant). The Webster technique protocol also alleviates tender spots at the front of the abdomen, which will help both mother and baby (again, if the patient is pregnant and preparing for childbirth). Dr. Johnson usually recommends chiropractic care for pregnant women throughout the pregnancy to detect any sacral problems and help any back discomfort prior to childbirth, and for six weeks after birth to ensure that the mother's joints and ligaments recover properly from the birth process. Dr. Johnson is fully certified as a Webster technique doctor. Only certified chiropractors can be considered Webster technique practitioners. If you would like to learn more about the Webster technique, contact us today. Studies show that half of all pregnant women develop low back pain during their pregnancies. The reasons are fairly self-evident: a displaced center of gravity, fluid retention, weight gain, ligamentous laxity caused by a special pregnancy hormone called relaxin, sleeping on her back, not remaining active enough, and altered biomechanics. Chiropractic has been shown to be safe and effective in reducing low back pain during pregnancy. One collaborative chiropractic and medical survey revealed that 75% of pregnant women found relief through chiropractic, even though the baby was still causing pressure on their spines and nerves. The Mayo Clinic encourages pregnant women to consider chiropractic. Dr. Johnson specializes in the gentle Activator Methods technique of chiropractic adjusting. This instrument-assisted technique does not require the pregnant woman to contort her body or assume uncomfortable positions. The instrument does all the work, ensuring the comfort of the mother and the safety of the baby. Some women ask, "Do I have to lay face down on the table? Is that all right for the baby?" The Activator Methods analysis is most accurate when the patient lies face down, so that is our preference. Dr. Johnson uses a special pillow to maximize the mother's comfort and relieve any pressure from her belly. This analysis and technique are safe for the baby. Dr. Johnson is also certified in the Webster technique, which has gained recognition as a highly effective technique for pregnant women and their babies as they prepare for childbirth. Many women wonder whether they should continue an exercise regimen while pregnant, or if they ought to begin a exercise program. The answer to both questions is "YES!" Exercise, especially during the second half of the pregnancy, has been shown to significantly reduce the intensity of back pain. Also, women who do not regularly exercise are less likely to have a normal vaginal delivery. Women who already have an established exercise regimen, in most cases, should continue the same regimen. Pay close attention to warning signs such as dizziness, balance issues, shortness of breath, etc. Do not increase the intensity of the exercise regimen. Women who have not previously had an exercise regimen are encouraged to perform mild to moderate exercise sessions, three or more times per week. Contact sports, scuba diving, high-altitude activities, and intense workout sessions are not recommended. |
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DisclaimerUnless otherwise attributed, all content is written by Kyle Johnson, DC, of Johnson Family Chiropractic of Peoria.
All images used are under Creative Commons license. Although every effort has been made to provide an accurate description of our chiropractic care and its benefits, the information given on this website and blog is not intended to be, nor should it be interpreted as, medical advice for any condition. If you have any questions regarding your condition, you should seek the help of Dr. Johnson in person, so that he may properly assess your condition. This blog is provided by Johnson Family Chiropractic of Peoria, S.C., proudly located in Peoria, IL. |