“Numerous case studies and some clinical studies are revealing that there is a relationship between abnormalities in the spine, the nervous system and the various health challenges that women experience with pregnancy” stated Dr. Matthew McCoy, a chiropractor, public health researcher and editor of the journal that published the study.
McCoy added “In the case report presented, the woman was suffering from upper back and lower back pain, in addition to sleep issues during pregnancy that resolved under chiropractic care because of the nature of the nervous system and its relationship to the spine and how the body functions. Research is revealing that chiropractic care can play a crucial role during pregnancy, labor and delivery.”
According to researchers the nervous system controls and coordinates all functions of the body and structural shifts in the spine can occur that obstruct the nerves and interfere with their function. By removing the structural shifts, chiropractic improves nerve supply and function.
The 24-year-old woman reported on in the study was 10 weeks pregnant with low back pain. The pain had been constant since the beginning of the pregnancy. The pain made it difficult for her to do her work at a desk, sit for long periods, and stand for long periods. She also had chronic upper back pain and difficulty sleeping.
The chiropractor examined her and found structural shifts in her neck, upper back, and lower back. She had very tight muscles and abnormal posture. There was a notable decrease in lower back range of motion, and positive orthopedic tests. These structural shifts can lead to obstruction of the nerves and it is this obstruction, called vertebral subluxations, that chiropractors correct.
Following chiropractic adjustments, she experienced complete resolution of low back pain and experienced better sleep. She was able to work for long periods with no pain.
The study’s author called for additional research to investigate the clinical implications of chiropractic in this population.
Contact Information:
Matthew McCoy DC, MPH
Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health – Chiropractic
http://www.chiropracticpediatricresearch.com
support@vertebralsubluxationresearch.com
