Chiropractic Care and Pregnancy

Chiropractic care during pregnancy is not only safe but incredibly beneficial. During pregnancy, women experience many changes in their body, including changes in pelvic alignment, changes in posture and an increased back curve that comes with a protruding abdomen. These changes can result in a misaligned spine or joints. It is important to maintain proper alignment during pregnancy so that the baby can have enough room to develop, as well as to keep the nervous system and the rest of your body functioning properly.

 

At Robinson Family Chiropractic, Dr. Robinson utilizes adjustment techniques that do not place pressure on the abdomen, making chiropractic care completely safe and possible for pregnant women. With regular chiropractic care and prenatal massage, our team can help you have a healthy pregnancy, while controlling the symptoms of nausea and relieving pain in your back, neck and joints. Adjustments can also help reduce time of labor and delivery and prevent the need for a cesarean section. By keeping the spine in alignment, there will be more room for the baby to turn and get into the proper position in preparation for delivery, which will decrease the chance of a breach birth or need for medical intervention.

 

If you are pregnant, call our Rolling Meadows or Algonquin office at 847-963-4894 and 847-458-8444 respectively to schedule an appointment. For more information, visit www.handsdoc.com. 

Sports Stretching

You’ve probably been told many times by former coaches and gym teachers to stretch before you exercise, but do you know why? At Robinson Family Chiropractic, our team constantly promotes stretching before exercise because stretching improves flexibility, decreases the risk of injury to muscles and stretching keeps your body limber by releasing muscle tension and tightness.

Not all types of stretching are equal, so the type of stretches as well as the timing makes a difference in flexibility and exercise. If your current stretching routine doesn't appear to improve overall flexibility, then you may want to consider making some changes. Before you begin stretching, you must make sure to do it safely. Here are a few tips:

• Focus on major muscle groups: calves, thighs, hips, lower back, neck and shoulders
• Hold your stretch: try holding each stretch for about 30 seconds at a time. In problem areas, you may need to hold for about 60 seconds
• Feel the burn: expect to feel the tension while you’re stretching, not pain. If you begin to hurt, you’ve pushed too far
• Be sport specific: make sure to stretch for the sport you’re participating in
• Move around: gentle movement while you’re stretching can help you become more flexible