The Webster Technique has become a cornerstone of chiropractic care during pregnancy. It was developed by Dr. Larry Webster, who witnessed the traumatic effects of a difficult birth involving a breech presentation that required medical intervention, resulting in two broken clavicles.
Recognizing the need for a better, less invasive way to support the birthing process, he created what is now known as the Webster Technique. This gentle, non-invasive chiropractic approach focuses on aligning the sacrum and releasing tension in the pelvic ligaments and muscles. By addressing sacral subluxation and sacroiliac dysfunction, the pelvic environment can function optimally, creating a more balanced and functional space for the baby to grow. This method promotes natural biomechanics and supports optimal neurological function, allowing the birth process to proceed more smoothly with fewer interventions.
Physically, the Webster Technique supports the neurobiomechanics of the body by restoring nervous system function and balancing the pelvic bones, muscles, and ligaments. Beyond physical benefits, it also provides emotional support. People who receive Webster adjustments during pregnancy report feelings of trust, ease, and self-confidence in their pregnancy journey. This helps them approach pregnancy and birth with clarity and adaptability.
By fostering trust in the natural capabilities of their bodies, they can “let go,” remain present, and reduce the tendency to panic when experiencing new sensations. In chiropractic care, we use the terms “power,” “passage,” and “passenger” to explain the importance and purpose of the Webster Technique:
Power:
Power refers to uterine contractions. For contractions to effectively move the baby through the uterus and vaginal canal, they must function without interference. Pelvic misalignments, especially in the sacrum, can disrupt the nervous system's ability to coordinate strong, consistent contractions. Correcting sacral subluxations through Webster adjustments improves nerve function, enabling the mother’s nervous system to coordinate efficient contractions.
Passage:
Passage pertains to the pelvic outlet through which the baby descends during birth. The structure of the mother’s pelvis is crucial for this process, as sufficient space is needed for the baby’s passage. Sacral misalignments can reduce the size of the pelvic outlet and the natural pliability of the sacral joints, creating physical barriers for the baby. The Webster Technique addresses these misalignments, restoring proper pelvic alignment and mobility to facilitate the baby’s descent.
Passenger:
Passenger refers to the baby. The baby’s position in the womb is influenced by the mother’s pelvic alignment. A misaligned pelvis creates tension in the uterine ligaments, restricting the baby’s movements and potentially leading to unfavorable positioning, such as breech presentation. By releasing this tension, the Webster Technique provides the baby with more freedom to move and often encourages a head-down position.
Regular adjustments by a chiropractor certified in the Webster Technique help mothers engage more actively and skillfully in the birthing process. This technique supports the body’s innate functions while empowering mothers and partners to mindfully participate in the birthing journey.
Many families report that the Webster Technique provides physical and emotional relief during pregnancy, helping them experience a more balanced and comfortable pregnancy. This, in turn, often leads to a safer and more positive birth experience.
One family shared:
“Before I started seeing my chiropractor, I could barely walk and was in so much pain. By the end of my pregnancy, not only could I walk pain-free, but I felt amazing! In addition, I know that routine chiropractic care contributed to my fast, complication free labor. I can’t imagine going through pregnancy and birth without chiropractic care.”
Another mother said:
“The Webster Technique should be the logical first choice for mothers and birth practitioners to facilitate normal function throughout pregnancy.”
These testimonials highlight not only the physical relief the Webster Technique provides but also the emotional confidence it instills, providing mothers peace of mind as they prepare for birth. The Webster Technique embraces the philosophy that birth is not just a physiological event but also a transformative experience. By aligning the body’s natural physiology and supporting the nervous system, it reduces likelihood of birth trauma, enhances the health of both newborns and mothers, and empowers families to make educated, confident decisions about pregnancy and birth.
At Aura Chiropractic, we provide customized, personal plan for you during every part of your journey from conception through pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and beyond! All of our doctors are certified by the ICPA in Webster Technique. Reach out to schedule an appointment or gather more information!
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