Prenatal Chiropractic Care
for a Healthy Pregnancy
Move well. Think well. Be Well.
Expecting a baby is an exciting journey – but it can also come with aches, pains, and new stresses on your body. Our prenatal chiropractic care in Chillicothe, MO provides gentle, safe adjustments for expectant mothers. We help relieve common pregnancy discomforts like back pain, hip pain, and sciatica while supporting a healthier, more comfortable pregnancy for both mom and baby. All of our techniques are pregnancy-safe and drug-free, focused on helping you feel your best during this special time.
Benefits of Chiropractic During Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a time of rapid change. Chiropractic care can make those changes easier on your body and enhance your overall wellness. Some key benefits of prenatal chiropractic include:
Pain Relief
Easing lower back pain, sciatica nerve pain, neck stiffness, and headaches that often accompany pregnancy’s postural changes.
Improved Mobility
Keeping your spine and joints aligned so you can move comfortably as your belly grows, helping you stay active and sleep better.
Healthier Pregnancy
Reducing stress on the nervous system may improve overall wellness. Many moms report better sleep and less discomfort when receiving regular adjustments
Easier Labor & Delivery
Proper pelvic alignment and nervous system function can contribute to a smoother birth. Research shows that first-time moms under chiropractic care had labor times about 25% shorter on average (and 30% shorter for experienced moms). By preparing your body for birth, chiropractic may help labor progress with fewer complications.
Optimal Fetal Positioning
Gentle balancing of the pelvis can give your baby more room to get into the best position for birth. This may help reduce the chance of breech presentation or posterior positioning, potentially leading to an easier delivery.
Common Pregnancy Aches
We Relieve
Every pregnancy is unique, but there are some common aches and pains that many expecting mothers experience. The good news is chiropractic adjustments can provide relief for many of these issues by correcting alignment and easing tension:
Lower Back Pain
As your baby grows, your lower back arches more, often causing pain or stiffness. Adjustments restore proper alignment to relieve that familiar “pregnancy back pain.”
Sciatica and Hip Pain
Tingling or shooting pain from the lower back into the hip and leg is common when the sciatic nerve is irritated. We gently adjust the lower spine and hips to reduce nerve pressure, easing sciatica symptoms.
Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP)
Pain in the pelvis, hips, or front of the pubic bone (symphysis) can make walking or rolling in bed painful. Chiropractic techniques help realign the sacrum and pelvis, relieving pressure on joints like the SI joints and pubic symphysis.
Neck, Shoulder & Rib Pain
The weight of your growing breasts and the postural changes of pregnancy can strain the upper back and rib cage. Gentle adjustments and soft tissue work can reduce mid-back tightness, rib discomfort, and neck tension, which also helps with tension headaches.
Round Ligament Pain
Sharp lower belly pains (often on the side) can be caused by tight round ligaments supporting your uterus. While we don’t adjust the ligaments directly, ensuring your pelvis is balanced can take strain off these ligaments. Many moms find their round ligament pain eases as their alignment improves.
Other Discomforts
From headaches to carpal tunnel syndrome (numb or tingling hands common in pregnancy), our holistic approach addresses the musculoskeletal contributors to many prenatal discomforts. If something is bothering you, ask us – we may have a chiropractic or therapeutic solution to help.
Safe Techniques for Expectant Mothers
Your safety and comfort (and your baby’s) are always our top priority. Prenatal chiropractic adjustments are very safe when performed by a trained professional. According to the American Pregnancy Association, there are no known contraindications to chiropractic care during a normal, healthy pregnancy. Dr. Matthew Arthaud has specialized knowledge to care for expecting moms, and we always adapt our techniques to your needs and stage of pregnancy. Here’s what you can expect from our pregnancy-friendly approach:
Specialized Equipment
We have pregnancy-specific adjustment tables and cushioned supports (pregnancy pillows) that allow you to lie face-down comfortably without putting pressure on your belly. Many moms-to-be are thrilled to safely lie on their stomach again during an adjustment!
Gentle Adjustments
Our techniques for pregnant patients are gentle and precise. We may use low-force methods, drop-table adjustments, or an activator instrument instead of quick twisting movements, especially in later pregnancy. This ensures a comfortable experience with no undue strain on your body.
Customized Care
Every pregnancy is different. We take the time to understand your symptoms and tailor each treatment. Whether you’re in your first trimester with mild aches or in your third trimester with significant pelvic pain, we will adjust our methods to what is safest and most effective for you.
Coordination with Your OB/Midwife
We encourage an open line of communication with your obstetrician or midwife. Chiropractic is a wonderful complement to regular prenatal medical care. If you have any specific medical considerations or restrictions, we will gladly coordinate to ensure your care is fully integrated and safe.
Preparing Your Body
for Birth
As you move through the later stages of pregnancy, our focus expands to helping your body prepare for the big day – labor and delivery. Prenatal chiropractic care can play a role in setting the stage for a smoother birth experience:
Pelvic Alignment
We pay special attention to the alignment of your pelvis and sacrum (the tailbone area). When the pelvis is misaligned, it can create tight spaces or torsion in the uterus (sometimes called intrauterine constraint). By gently adjusting the pelvis, we help ensure there’s optimal room for your growing baby. This may encourage a baby in breech or sideways position to move into the correct head-down position naturally by reducing constraints. Even if your baby is already head-down, a balanced pelvis can help them maintain an ideal position for birth.
Nervous System Function
The nerves in your lower back control the uterus and pelvic floor muscles. Any irritation to those nerves from spinal misalignments could potentially affect how those muscles function during labor. Keeping your spine aligned supports proper nerve communication, which is important for effective contractions and coordination when the time comes.
Potential for Shorter Labor
As mentioned earlier, studies have noted that women who receive regular chiropractic care through pregnancy often experience labor that is shorter and less intense than average. While every birth is different, being well-aligned can help labor progress more efficiently by ensuring your baby is positioned well and your body is mechanically ready for delivery.
Less Pain & Fewer Interventions
Many of our patients report less back labor (back pain during contractions) and overall more manageable discomfort during childbirth after having prenatal chiropractic care. Some also have noted a reduced need for interventions like pain medications or C-sections. Our goal is never to replace the care you receive from your birth team, but to support it — giving you the best chance at a natural, low-complication birth if that’s your goal.
Postpartum Recovery
We don’t stop caring for you once baby is born. Proper alignment can also aid in postpartum recovery. A well-aligned pelvis and spine can ease post-birth discomfort and help your body return to its pre-pregnancy posture more quickly. Many moms come back for a postpartum adjustment (or “4th trimester” visit) to address the strains of childbirth and even get advice on breastfeeding posture and lifting infants safely. We’re here for you in the weeks and months after delivery just as much as during pregnancy.
Throughout your prenatal visits, we’ll also provide guidance on exercises, stretches, and wellness tips to support your pregnancy. This might include simple pelvic tilts or hip stretches to do at home, advice on the best sleeping positions or pillows, and even basic nutritional or ergonomic tips (like how to bend or lift properly as your belly grows). We want you to feel empowered in your pregnancy journey.
Compassionate Care for Mom and Baby
At The Well-House Chiropractic, our approach is not only holistic but also heart-centered. Dr. Arthaud and our team genuinely care about our moms-to-be. As a healthcare provider (and a parent himself), Dr. Arthaud understands the mix of excitement and concern that pregnancy brings. We take the time to listen to you – whether it’s your first baby or your fifth – so we can address your questions and fears alongside your physical needs. When you visit us for prenatal care, you’ll find:
A Comfortable Environment
Our clinic in Chillicothe is warm and family-friendly. We often have calming music and a relaxed atmosphere to help you unwind. If you need a break during the day for some self-care, our office is a welcoming haven.
Personalized Attention
We schedule ample time for prenatal appointments, especially initial visits. We’ll review your health history, any pregnancy-related concerns, and explain everything we do before we do it. You’ll never feel rushed here.
Holistic Support
Beyond adjustments, we can offer lifestyle tips to support a healthy pregnancy. This might include gentle exercise recommendations, proper nutrition guidance (Dr. Arthaud’s background in functional nutrition gives him extra insight here), and techniques to manage stress naturally. We consider the whole you, not just your spine.
Family Inclusion
If you want to bring your partner or kids to the appointment, they’re welcome too! Little ones often enjoy seeing mom get adjusted (and we have pediatric chiropractic care available if your other children ever need it). We believe caring for a growing family is a family affair, and we love being a part of it.
Most importantly, we view our role as your partner in a healthy pregnancy. Your goals become our goals. If your aim is to have a natural birth with minimal interventions, we will do everything we can to help your body work at its best. If you simply want to get through pregnancy with less pain and more energy, we’ve got you covered there too. Every adjustment, every piece of advice is given with the intent of helping you enjoy this journey and feel confident heading into motherhood.
Ready for Relief During Pregnancy?
You don’t have to accept pregnancy pain as “just part of being pregnant.” Safe, gentle relief is available, and we’re here to provide it. If you’re pregnant in Chillicothe or the surrounding area (Trenton, Brookfield, Cameron, and beyond), come experience how prenatal chiropractic care can make a difference for you and your baby.
Take the next step toward a more comfortable pregnancy – contact us today! Our friendly team is happy to answer your questions and get you scheduled for an initial prenatal chiropractic assessment. We offer flexible appointment times to accommodate your busy life (and to work around those prenatal check-ups and naps!).
- Call or Text: Reach us at (740) 823-9355 to speak with our staff or send a quick text – we know expecting moms are often on the go.
- Book Online: Prefer to schedule on your own time? You can easily book your prenatal appointment online through our secure portal (just choose “Initial Prenatal Consultation” or similar). It only takes a few minutes.
- Location: Visit us at 519 Locust Street, Chillicothe, MO, right in downtown Chillicothe. We’re proud to serve moms-to-be from all over north-central Missouri. (Same-week appointments are often available. If you’re experiencing acute pregnancy pain, let us know and we’ll do our best to fit you in as soon as possible.)
Empower yourself with a more comfortable, healthier pregnancy. We’ll support you every step of the way, from first trimester to delivery and beyond. Your journey to motherhood deserves the very best care – and we’re honored to be part of it.
Success Stories from Our Patients
At The Well-House Chiropractic, we’re not just building a practice – we’re building a wellness family and a healthier community. Thank you for taking the time to get to know us. We hope our passion for holistic, patient-centered care shines through.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Prenatal Chiropractic at The Well-House
Is it safe to see a chiropractor while pregnant?
Yes – prenatal chiropractic care is considered very safe for both mother and baby. There are no known contraindications to chiropractic adjustments during a normal, healthy pregnancy. Our techniques are gentle and specifically adapted for pregnant women. We avoid any pressure on the abdomen and use specialized tables or cushions to protect you and your baby. Many OB/GYNs and midwives actually recommend chiropractic care to their pregnant patients for pain relief and wellness. Of course, if you have a specific high-risk condition, always consult your doctor, but generally chiropractic is a safe, natural way to feel better during pregnancy.
How can chiropractic care benefit me during pregnancy?
Prenatal chiropractic care can make a huge difference in your comfort and health while pregnant. The benefits include relief from back pain, hip and pelvic pain, sciatica, neck and shoulder tension, and headaches. Chiropractic adjustments help keep your spine and pelvis aligned as your body changes, which can improve your mobility and balance (so you’re less likely to stumble or fall). Many expecting moms also report sleeping better and feeling less overall stress when getting regular adjustments. Importantly, by aligning the pelvis, chiropractic may help your baby get into the proper position for birth, potentially leading to a smoother labor. Some studies have even found that women under chiropractic care had shorter labor times on average. In short, it helps you stay as comfortable, active, and healthy as possible throughout pregnancy.
Can chiropractic adjustments help if my baby is breech?
Chiropractic care may help encourage a breech baby to turn head-down by aligning the mother’s pelvis and reducing tension. This gives the baby more space to move into the optimal position. While there’s no guarantee, many moms have reported their breech babies turning on their own after a few gentle adjustment sessions. It’s a safe, non-invasive option to try alongside the exercises or recommendations from your OB/midwife. We will also work with your healthcare team to support your goal of a head-down baby by delivery.
When should I start prenatal chiropractic care, and how often should I go?
You can begin chiropractic care at any point in your pregnancy – the earlier, the better for preventive benefits, but it’s never too late to start. Many women start in the first or second trimester to address emerging aches or simply to keep their body in alignment throughout pregnancy. If you’re further along and just now seeking care for pain relief, that’s perfectly okay too. As for frequency: it varies per individual. Generally, once per month in early pregnancy can help maintain good alignment. In the mid to late third trimester, you might benefit from weekly adjustments as your body prepares for birth (and to continually relieve the rapid postural changes). Dr. Arthaud will create a personalized plan based on your condition – some moms with significant pain or specific issues might come in twice a week for a short period, while others doing great might come bi-weekly. We’ll always adjust the frequency to what you need and are comfortable with. Even one or two sessions late in pregnancy can provide relief, so don’t hesitate to come even if you’re near your due date.
Do I need a referral or permission from my OB/GYN to see a prenatal chiropractor?
In most cases, no formal referral is needed – you can schedule with a chiropractor directly. Chiropractic is a complementary healthcare service. If you have an OB/GYN or midwife, it’s a good idea to let them know you’re receiving chiropractic care, just so all your providers are on the same page. We are more than happy to coordinate with your primary maternity care provider if needed. Most obstetric providers are very supportive of chiropractic care because they know it’s low-risk and can help with common pregnancy complaints. If your OB has any specific guidelines (for example, avoiding laying on your back for too long), we will absolutely accommodate those. We value teamwork in caring for you. So while you don’t need a doctor’s referral to come to The Well-House Chiropractic, feel free to discuss it with your OB – you might be surprised that they encourage it!
What if I’ve never been to a chiropractor before – is the first visit while pregnant scary?
We understand trying something new during pregnancy can feel daunting, but rest assured, we will walk you through everything and keep you completely comfortable. Your first visit will involve a consultation where we talk about your pregnancy, any pains or goals you have, and an exam to check your posture, spine, and pelvic alignment. Dr. Arthaud will explain what he finds and how he can help. If you’re ready, you can usually receive a gentle adjustment on that first visit. We always start slow and use techniques you’re comfortable with. Many pregnant patients actually find the adjustment table super relaxing (with the belly pillow, you get to lie face-down without pressure, which is a treat when you’re far along!). We will never twist or press you in a way that makes you uneasy. Most moms say they feel relief and wish they had started sooner. So there’s nothing to be afraid of – you and your baby will be in safe, caring hands.