The Webster Technique, as defined by the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA), is a specific chiropractic analysis and diversified adjustment to reduce the effects of subluxation and/or SI joint dysfunction.
The ICPA initiated the Webster Technique Certification to provide doctors of chiropractic with the advanced training and physiological understanding of the use of this technique during pregnancy to support optimal physiological function in pregnancy and birth.
The History of The Webster Technique
The Webster technique was developed in the 1980s by chiropractor Dr. Larry Webster. He was inspired after his daughter’s difficult birth to find ways that chiropractic care could address the pelvis and ease labor and delivery.
At the center of his method is the idea of intrauterine constraint, which means that a baby’s movement is restricted inside the uterus. This may cause aches and pains for the pregnant person and possible complications for the baby, like the inability to move into an ideal birth presentation.
In 2000, a certification program was launched for the method. Webster also founded the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA), which is currently made up of more than 6,000 chiropractors who specialize in family health and well-being.
Symptoms and Conditions Caused by Sacral Misalignment
According to the ICPA, sacral subluxation in a pregnant woman may contribute to difficult labor. During pregnancy, the release of the relaxin hormone causes ligaments to loosen which can exacerbate stress to this area along with an expanding uterus and increasing weight which further compromises muscle stability around the pelvis.
In addition, sacral misalignment can contribute to:
- round ligament pain
- pubic bone pain
- psoas and piriformis syndrome
- symphysis pubis dysfunction
- posterior pelvic pain
- sacroiliac joint pain
All of which can be ailments during pregnancy for moms-to-be.
The Webster Technique and Chiropractic Care at Vaida
Dr. Lydia and Dr. Emily are both specially certified in The Webster Technique and they utilize this analysis and specific adjustment with all of our pregnant patients throughout their pregnancy, focusing on it more specifically from 30 weeks until delivery.
If you are a mom-to-be and are experiencing any pain and/or discomfort in your sacral region (or anywhere else), come and visit us at Vaida to get adjusted.