Pregnancy is a time of exciting change, but it can also bring about physical discomforts. As the body undergoes significant transformation to accommodate the growing baby, many moms-to-be experience back pain, pelvic discomfort, and even issues with the baby’s position. Fortunately, chiropractic care—specifically the Webster Technique—offers a gentle, effective solution that can support a healthier, more comfortable pregnancy for both mom and baby.
What Is the Webster Technique?The Webster Technique is a specific chiropractic adjustment designed to address issues with the sacrum, pelvis, and surrounding ligaments during pregnancy. Developed by Dr. Larry Webster, founder of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA), the Webster Technique focuses on restoring balance to the pelvis and optimizing the alignment of the sacrum, which can help reduce tension in the muscles and ligaments that support the uterus.
The goal of the Webster Technique is to improve the overall alignment and function of the pelvis, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort, encourage proper fetal positioning, and create an optimal environment for childbirth. It's particularly beneficial for women who may experience breech presentation or other positioning concerns with their baby late in pregnancy.
Gentle, Safe, and Effective for Mom and BabyOne of the main concerns many women have when considering chiropractic care during pregnancy is safety. Rest assured, chiropractic adjustments—especially those using the Webster Technique—are gentle, non-invasive, and safe for both the mother and the baby. Chiropractors trained in this technique are specially equipped to modify their approach to suit the unique needs of a pregnant woman, using gentle and specific adjustments that pose no risk to the baby.
Here are some of the key benefits of chiropractic care and the Webster Technique during pregnancy:
1. Relieves Pregnancy-Related DiscomfortsPregnancy can cause a variety of aches and pains, including lower back pain, hip pain, sciatica, and pelvic discomfort. The Webster Technique works to relieve tension in the lower back and pelvis, which can help reduce these common discomforts. Many women report feeling significant relief after just a few sessions.
2. Encourages Proper Fetal PositioningOne of the most well-known benefits of the Webster Technique is its ability to help encourage optimal fetal positioning. Late in pregnancy, babies may adopt a breech, posterior, or transverse position, which can complicate labor and delivery. By restoring pelvic balance, the Webster Technique can create more space for the baby to move into a head-down position, potentially reducing the risk of a breech presentation and improving the chances of a smoother, natural birth.
3. Supports Pelvic and Hip HealthAs pregnancy progresses, the body’s center of gravity shifts, and the ligaments and joints of the pelvis stretch and soften in preparation for labor. Chiropractic care, particularly the Webster Technique, can help keep the pelvis aligned and reduce the strain on the hip joints. This alignment can promote better posture, reduce pain, and increase mobility.
4. Improves Overall Comfort and Well-BeingChiropractic care is not just about relieving pain—it's also about promoting overall wellness. The Webster Technique helps optimize the nervous system's function, which can lead to better sleep, reduced stress, and a sense of well-being. Chiropractic adjustments also encourage the body’s natural healing processes, supporting a healthy pregnancy from start to finish.
5. Safe and Non-InvasiveUnlike medications or other interventions, chiropractic adjustments using the Webster Technique are non-invasive and drug-free. Chiropractors trained in pregnancy care use gentle, targeted techniques that pose no risk to the baby, making this an ideal treatment option for women who want to avoid medications or more invasive procedures during pregnancy.

Dr. Meredith Hodges: Special interest in Women’s Health, Prenatal, and Postnatal Chiropractic Care. If you’re looking for a chiropractor with specialized training in women’s health and prenatal care, Dr. Meredith Hodges is here to support you. Dr. Hodges has a special interest in women's health and is highly trained in prenatal and postnatal chiropractic care. As a chiropractor trained in the Webster Technique, Dr. Hodges is equipped to provide safe and effective care for pregnant women, helping to ease discomfort and encourage optimal fetal positioning. Whether you're seeking relief from back pain, hip discomfort, or hoping to improve your baby's position, Dr. Hodges is dedicated to providing gentle, personalized care to help you through each stage of your pregnancy.
Visit Dalhousie Health & Wellness for Your Chiropractic Care. Dr. Meredith Hodges practices at Dalhousie Health and Wellness, a clinic that specializes in holistic health services with a focus on prenatal and postnatal care. The clinic offers a welcoming, supportive environment where women can receive gentle and effective chiropractic treatments that cater to their unique needs during pregnancy.
If you’re looking for a safe, effective, and natural way to support your pregnancy, Dalhousie Health and Wellness is here to help. Whether you're seeking relief from pregnancy-related discomfort, working to improve your baby’s positioning, or just looking to enhance your overall well-being, Dr. Hodges and the team at Dalhousie Health and Wellness are ready to support you through this important time in your life.
Is the Webster Technique Right for You?If you are pregnant and experiencing discomfort or concerns about your baby’s position, the Webster Technique could be a great option for you. However, it’s always important to consult with your healthcare provider before beginning any new treatment. If you're already seeing a chiropractor, make sure they are trained in the Webster Technique and experienced in treating pregnant women.
Chiropractic care, particularly the Webster Technique, is a safe, gentle, and effective way to support your body through pregnancy. Whether you're seeking relief from discomfort, hoping to improve fetal positioning, or just looking to feel your best throughout your pregnancy journey, chiropractic care can provide the support you need for a healthier, more comfortable pregnancy.
Ready to experience the benefits of chiropractic care during pregnancy? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Meredith Hodges at Dalhousie Health & Wellness to see how the Webster Technique can help you and your pregnancy.

Do you often feel lightheaded, unbalanced, or like your surroundings are spinning? If so, you may be experiencing dizziness or vertigo, conditions that can interfere with daily life and cause discomfort, nausea, and anxiety. Fortunately, acupuncture has been shown to provide significant relief from these troubling symptoms.
What is the Difference Between Dizziness and Vertigo?Dizziness and vertigo are both types of balance disorders, but they have distinct symptoms:

• Dizziness is typically described as lightheadedness or a feeling of unsteadiness. It often occurs when standing up from a seated or lying down position, leading to visual disturbances, loss of balance, or even fainting. Episodes can last from seconds to minutes.
  
• Vertigo is a more severe type of dizziness characterized by the sensation of your surroundings spinning. It often lasts longer (minutes to hours) and is frequently accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
  

Common Causes of Dizziness and VertigoThere are numerous conditions and lifestyle factors that can contribute to dizziness and vertigo:

• Motion sickness or a sensitivity to movement
• Anxiety and stress, which can impact your balance and spatial awareness
• Hyperventilation, which affects oxygen levels and balance
• Anemia and low blood pressure, leading to faintness
• Neurological disorders, such as Multiple Sclerosis, epilepsy, or Parkinson’s disease
• Heart disease, which may disrupt blood flow to the brain
• Certain medications, including alcohol, barbiturates, opiates, nicotine, caffeine, diuretics, and antidepressants
• Head trauma or injury that affects inner ear function
• Ear issues, such as wax buildup or infections
• Hormonal changes (e.g., PMS)
• Dietary imbalances or dehydration
• Overwork and exhaustion, which can lead to physical and mental fatigue

How Acupuncture Helps with Dizziness and VertigoAcupuncture is a natural, holistic treatment that aims to restore balance to the body by stimulating specific points along energy pathways (meridians). When it comes to dizziness and vertigo, acupuncture can:

• Improve blood circulation and balance
• Regulate the nervous system and relieve stress
• Address underlying health conditions such as anemia or neurological issues
• Reduce inflammation in the inner ear
• Alleviate nausea and vomiting associated with vertigo

Many patients find acupuncture to be a safe and effective way to reduce the frequency and severity of vertigo episodes and dizziness. Some practitioners may also use complementary therapies, such as moxibustion (a heat therapy) or cupping, to enhance the healing effects.
Why Choose Acupuncture at Dalhousie Health & Wellness?If you’re struggling with dizziness or vertigo, acupuncture could be the solution you’ve been searching for. Tammy, our Registered Acupuncturist, has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating balance disorders. By addressing the root cause of your symptoms, she can help restore your sense of stability and improve your quality of life.
Don’t let dizziness control your life--book an appointment with Tammy at Dalhousie Health & Wellness today and take the first step towards a more balanced and healthy future!