Benefits of Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy

New research demonstrates how chiropractic care during pregnancy can help correct breech positioning while potentially supporting your baby's neurological development. A case study published in the Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health Chiropractic shows successful resolution of a “transverse lie” (sideways baby position) through a gentle chiropractic approach designed for pregnant women. 

Understanding Breech Positioning and Its Challenges 

When a baby is in breech position, their feet or bottom face the birth canal instead of their head. This occurs in approximately 3-4% of full-term pregnancies and can lead to: 

Complicated, painful, and even injurious labor and  delivery 

• Increased cesarean section risk 
• Potential birth complications 
• Stress for mother and baby 

In this case study the baby was in transverse position which makes normal birth more tenuous. 

Traditional medical approaches often involve external cephalic version (manually turning the baby) or scheduled cesarean sections. However, this new research highlights a gentler alternative that addresses the root cause of positioning issues. 

Chiropractic care during pregnancy offers specific chiropractic analysis and adjustment that: 

1. Addresses Pelvic Alignment 

The technique focuses on sacral and pelvic misalignments that may create uterine constraint. When the pelvis is properly aligned, the uterus has optimal space for the baby to move naturally. 

2. Reduces Nerve Interference 

By correcting vertebral subluxations (spinal misalignments), chiropractic adjustments improve nerve communication between the brain and reproductive organs, and muscles, and hormone balancing organs 

3. Balances Surrounding Muscles 

The technique includes soft tissue work to further release tension in muscles and ligaments supporting the uterus, creating a more balanced environment. 

4. Supports Natural Positioning 

Rather than forcing the baby to turn, this approach creates optimal conditions for the baby to move into proper head-down position naturally. 

Beyond Birth Position: Neurological Development Benefits 

The research also  reveals implications extending far beyond birth positioning. According to the study, vertebral subluxations can impact: 

Nervous System Function 

The nervous system controls all body functions, including fetal movement and development. When spinal misalignments interfere with nerve function, it may affect: 

• Fetal movement patterns 
• Developmental milestones 
• Neurological maturation 
• Overall growth and development 

Long-Term Developmental Outcomes

By correcting subluxations during pregnancy, chiropractic care supports: 

• Optimal brain development 
• Better coordination after birth 
• Improved neurological function 
• Enhanced developmental progression 

The Science Behind the Success 

This case study documented successful resolution of “transverse lie” through addressing:

Abnormal muscle, ligament, and fascial tissue laxity and/or tightening in the pelvis and spine. 

Nerve Interference from inflammation, pelvic bone alignment, and the baby’s position. 

What This Means for Expecting Mothers 

This research offers hope that chiropractic care helps pregnant women facing: 

• Breech or transverse positioning 
• Previous difficult deliveries 
• Desire for natural birth options 
• Concerns about baby's development 
• Round ligament pain 
• Low back or pelvic pain 

Chiropractic care provides a safe, gentle alternative that works with your body's natural processes without interfering with them. 

Safety and Effectiveness 

Chiropractic care is safe throughout any pregnancy, gentle and effective for all ages, and supported by growing research evidence. 

The technique used is this study does not involve any direct contact with the baby or forceful movements. Instead, it focuses on creating optimal conditions for natural positioning. 

When to Seek Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy 

Consider chiropractic evaluation if you experience: 

• Breech or transverse baby position 
• Lower back pain during pregnancy 
• Pelvic discomfort or imbalance 
• Previous cesarean delivery 
• Round ligament pain 
• Difficulty with fetal movement 

Early intervention often yields the best results, though chiropractic care can be effective even in later pregnancy stages. 

The Research Continues… 

The study authors call for continued documentation and larger research projects, including: 

• Cohort studies tracking long-term outcomes 
• Randomized controlled trials 
• Investigation of neurological development benefits 
• Documentation of success rates across populations 

This growing body of research strengthens the evidence for chiropractic care during pregnancy. 

Cromwell Family Chiropractic: Your Pregnancy Care Partners

At Cromwell Family Chiropractic in Farmington, MI, our doctors are trained in  prenatal chiropractic care. Dr. Jonathan Cromwell, Dr. Wetherbee, Dr. Shaw, and Dr. Dimitriou have extensive experience helping expecting mothers achieve optimal pregnancy outcomes. 

Why Choose Our Team 

With over 300 five-star Google reviews, we've earned our reputation by: 

• Providing gentle, effective pre-natal and post-partum care 
• Supporting natural birth preparations 
• Helping mothers avoid unnecessary interventions 
• Creating comfortable pregnancy experiences 

Our Comprehensive Approach 

We offer: 

• Pregnancy-specific adjustments 
• Collaborative care with midwives and OB/GYNs 
• Postpartum recovery support and spinal care 
• Newborn and pediatric care 

Take Action for Your Baby's Optimal Position and Development 



If you're pregnant and concerned about your baby's position or want to support his/her neurological development naturally, don't wait. The earlier you begin chiropractic care, the more time your body has to create optimal conditions for your baby. 

Expecting mothers in Farmington, MI, and surrounding communities can access this research-backed care today. Visit www.NerveDr.com  or call (248) 477-1492 to schedule your prenatal consultation. 

Give your baby the best start in life by ensuring proper positioning and supporting their neurological development through gentle, effective chiropractic care. Your journey to an easier birth and healthier baby begins with proper spinal alignment. 

Reference: Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health – Chiropractic, Volume 2025, Pages 58-69. Additional information from Vertebral Subluxation Research and McCoy Press.