Dr. Randi Jaffe, Chiropractor

WHY CHIROPRACTIC? Chiropractic is an extremely effective solution for pregnant women dealing with the aches and pains that accompany pregnancy. Instead of simply treating your symptoms, the chiropractor addresses the cause, the spinal misalignments. The chiropractic approach is also a holistic one, meaning that the doctor will address all aspects of your life that may be causing your condition, from your stress level, to your exercise program, to the chair you sit in at work.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR FIRST VISIT: An initial visit to a chiropractor will involve a thorough discussion of your pregnancy and the symptoms that you are currently experiencing. The doctor will provide a detailed examination, checking your posture, muscles, nerves, spinal bones, and joints of the pelvis and hips. You may experience some mild soreness during this exam, due to the fact that she will be checking for areas that may be sensitive and tender. Rest assured, the examination is usually painless and very comfortable. Despite the fact that many chiropractors utilize x-rays to aid in the analysis of the spine, pregnant women are not x-rayed to insure the safety of the fetus. Once a patient is examined, the doctor will perform a treatment, which is called a chiropractic adjustment. The adjustment is a procedure, which involves gentle pressure to the bones of the spine in order to correct the spinal misalignments. The doctor may also massage and stretch the muscles of the back to decrease any tightness or tension. Special tables and equipment are used to allow the pregnant patient comfort during her adjustment. Also at your visit, the doctor may discuss stretching and exercise programs with you, recommend vitamin supplements, discuss your diet, and handle any questions and concerns that you may have been regarding your treatment and condition. Your chiropractor may also encourage you to participate in prenatal yoga, which is an excellent way to keep your spine strong and flexible throughout your pregnancy. In addition, she may suggest that you utilize prenatal massage therapy in conjunction with your chiropractic adjustments. Many chiropractors work closely with massage therapists and often have a licensed massage therapist on staff. At your first or second visits, your doctor will recommend a treatment schedule depending on your symptoms and the severity of your condition.

THE BENEFITS OF PRENATAL CHIROPRACTIC CARE: 1.Correct vertebral misalignment and relieve pressure with gentle and effective adjustments. 2. Help ensure that pelvic bones are properly aligned, facilitating a quicker, easier delivery. 3.Reestablish the natural position and mobility of the joints. 4.Provide freedom from interference of normal nerve energy, which is vital for the development of a healthy baby and mother

IN CONCLUSION: Many women have accepted their pain as a “normal” part of pregnancy. However, why should we suffer with pain when a gentle, safe, and natural solution exists? Chiropractic has helped thousands of women through their pregnancies and has allowed them to enjoy this miraculous experience rather than struggle through it in constant pain and discomfort.