Pregnancy is an exciting time, but it can also be stressful. Suddenly, there are things you can’t eat and activities to avoid. It can be hard to keep up with what is safe for you and your baby and what isn’t. This can include healthcare, especially if something traumatic like a car accident happens. If you’re in a car accident while pregnant, you may wonder if it’s safe to visit a Lithia Springs chiropractor. The good news is that not only is chiropractic safe during pregnancy, but it’s often safer than other options and can benefit your baby in the long run.
What To Do If You’re In an Accident While Pregnant
After most car accidents, emergency responders will assess the scene and determine if emergency medical care is needed or you need to be transferred to the hospital. You should always make sure these responders know that you’re pregnant in case they need to take any extra precautions. A trip to the hospital may be necessary for a quick ultrasound to ensure the baby’s safety.
As you begin to heal, you will probably notice other injuries unrelated to your pregnancy, or you may not have any symptoms. Car accidents put a lot of force on the body, so even if you do not yet notice any problems, seeking care can be critical. This may preempt pain going forward or help you to identify injuries upfront. Normal issues like sprains may be exacerbated by the extra weight of your baby.
When deciding to pursue care, you’ll want to go somewhere that takes your baby into consideration. Chiropractors are often skilled in prenatal adjustment for other reasons and will be able to help you. Additionally, the natural philosophy of chiropractic care means that it is a great choice for pregnancy when you may want to avoid pain medicine or imaging.
Benefits of Chiropractic Care during Pregnancy
Even without being in a car accident, many pregnant women seek regular chiropractic care. All chiropractors receive some training in prenatal adjustments, though some are certified in something called the Webster Technique, which provides further expertise. As your baby grows, your center of gravity shifts and your posture is often impacted, which is where much of the focus will be. Physical changes during pregnancy often impact the spine and joints, causing discomfort.
Prenatal adjustments will focus on these changes, along with the curve of your back as your stomach grows and changes to your pelvis. Chiropractic care often helps to align the pelvis to create the optimal positioning for a safe and natural birth.
Chiropractic care is equally beneficial for people who have been in car accidents. While you may begin by addressing injuries such as whiplash, concussions, or herniated discs, it’s likely other benefits will come from your treatment. You may be recovered from your injury and decide to continue being adjusted throughout your pregnancy!
Safely Addressing the Root Cause
The main philosophy of chiropractic care is that healing should happen at the root cause of your pain, rather than masking the symptoms. Often people are prescribed pain medication to manage injuries, which is dangerous and unsustainable in any case, and may not even be an option while pregnant. Instead, your car accident-related injuries will be addressed holistically so that the root cause is addressed and your pain subsides over time. This is critical as the changes in your body may exacerbate an injury or prevent it from healing on its own.
While the idea remains the same, some special accommodations may be made to achieve results during pregnancy. Special adjustment tables can be used to take pressure off of your stomach, and in your third trimester, you may be asked not to lie on your back. If there is anything you are uncomfortable doing, you can speak to your chiropractor about the risks and forego treatment until after birth if necessary.
Seeking Care During Pregnancy
If you are in a car accident while pregnant, it can be a scary time. Once you’ve ensured you and the baby aren’t in imminent danger, you’ll want to find the safest treatment option available. Chiropractic care is not only safe for you and baby, but can have benefits for your pregnancy, delivery, and overall health in the future. If you are in need of a Lithia Springs chiropractor, AICA Lithia Springs focuses on car accident injuries specifically.
Our multidisciplinary specialists are prepared to work with pregnant women to provide counseling and treatment that meets their needs and comfort level. Call us today to schedule your first consultation.