Pregnancy Feeling Uncomfortable? Let’s Talk About the Webster Technique
There comes a point in pregnancy when putting on your shoes becomes a project, rolling over in bed requires a strategy, and your lower back starts making itself known.
Growing a baby is a big job. But when everyday movements become uncomfortable, it’s reasonable to ask what support is available.
At Evolving Chiropractic in Mount Evelyn, Dr Carolyn Hawke sees women looking for advice about pregnancy-related back and pelvic discomfort. One approach you might have heard about is the Webster Technique.
So, what is it—and where does it fit into pregnancy care?
What is the Webster Technique?
The Webster Technique is a specific chiropractic assessment and adjustment approach focused on the sacrum—the bone at the base of your spine—and the joints connecting it to your pelvis.
In everyday language, it looks at how this area is functioning, with the aim of addressing joint dysfunction. It’s an approach used by some chiropractors during pregnancy.
Dr Carolyn is Webster Technique certified and has a special interest in pregnancy care. Whether this approach is appropriate for you depends on your symptoms, pregnancy history and individual assessment.
Why does pregnancy put your back and pelvis through their paces?
As your bump grows, your body adjusts to changes in weight and posture. Pregnancy hormones also affect the ligaments supporting your joints. Together, these changes can contribute to back and pelvic discomfort.
You might notice it when getting out of the car, climbing stairs or turning over in bed. Pelvic girdle pain can make these everyday movements surprisingly uncomfortable.
And while discomfort is common, that doesn’t mean you need to brush it off with, “Well, I’m pregnant!”
An assessment can help you understand what may be contributing and what support is appropriate.
What would we talk about at your appointment?
Start with the things that are bothering you most. Perhaps your back aches at your desk, walking has become uncomfortable, or you’re struggling to find a position that feels good.
Useful things to discuss include:
Where you feel discomfort and what brings it on.
Your pregnancy history and advice from your maternity team.
Your usual exercise, work and daily activities.
What you would like help managing.
The aim is to work out an individual plan, which may include advice about movement, activity changes, exercises or hands-on care where appropriate.
Looking for a pregnancy chiropractor near Mount Evelyn?
If you’ve been searching for a “pregnancy chiropractor near me” around Mount Evelyn, Lilydale, Mooroolbark or Croydon, Evolving Chiropractic is based in Mount Evelyn, in the Yarra Ranges.
You don’t need to know which technique to ask for. Start with what you’re feeling, what’s becoming difficult, and what you’d like help with.
Contact Evolving Chiropractic to book a pregnancy assessment with Dr Carolyn Hawke and discuss your options.
New, severe or persistent pain during pregnancy should be assessed by your maternity care team, particularly if you also have bleeding, fever or leaking fluid.
Adapted from: https://www.drcarolynchiro.com.au/blog/how-the-webster-technique-helps-create-a-more-comfortable-pregnancy