Pregnancy Chiropractic

Your body changes quickly during pregnancy. As your baby grows, your center of gravity shifts, your posture changes and hormones loosen your ligaments. For many expecting moms, that means back pain, hip pain and pelvic discomfort. At Actus Chiropractic, Dr. Val Tompkins has provided gentle, safe prenatal and postpartum chiropractic care to Brentwood families since 2001.

Dr. Val is certified in the Webster Technique through the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) and is an ICPA Fellow.

Common Pregnancy Discomforts We Help With

• Lower back pain and mid-back pain
• Sciatica and pain radiating into the hips or legs
• Pelvic and pubic bone pain
• Round ligament pain
• Sacroiliac (SI) joint pain
• Neck pain, headaches and upper back tension
• Rib pain as baby grows
• Trouble sleeping comfortably

What Is the Webster Technique?

The Webster Technique is a specific chiropractic analysis and adjustment for the pelvis and sacrum. Its goal is to reduce stress on the pelvis and the surrounding muscles and ligaments, including those that support the uterus. A balanced pelvis can give your baby more room to move and helps you feel more comfortable as your pregnancy progresses.

The Webster Technique is gentle and appropriate throughout pregnancy. Dr. Val uses padded supports and positions that keep you and your baby comfortable — no pressure on your belly.

Benefits of Prenatal Chiropractic Care

Many expecting moms who see a chiropractor report:

• Less back, hip and pelvic pain
• Better balance and posture as their body changes
• Improved sleep and comfort
• Better preparation of the pelvis for labor and delivery
• A drug-free option for pain during pregnancy

Is Chiropractic Care Safe During Pregnancy?

Yes, when performed by a trained chiropractor. Dr. Val adapts every adjustment to your stage of pregnancy, using gentle techniques and pregnancy-friendly positioning. We encourage you to keep your OB-GYN or midwife informed and are happy to coordinate with your birth team.

Postpartum Chiropractic Care

Care doesn't stop after delivery. Feeding, lifting a car seat and carrying your baby put new stress on your neck, shoulders and back. Postpartum chiropractic care can help your pelvis and spine readjust after birth. And when you're ready, we also offer gentle pediatric chiropractic care for your newborn.

Pregnancy Chiropractic FAQs

When should I start seeing a chiropractor during pregnancy? You can start at any point. Many moms begin in the first or second trimester to stay ahead of discomfort, while others come in when pain begins.

Can a chiropractor help with sciatica during pregnancy? Yes. Gentle adjustments to the pelvis and lower back can relieve pressure that contributes to sciatic pain.

Does the Webster Technique turn a breech baby? No. The Webster Technique doesn't turn the baby. It focuses on balancing the pelvis and reducing tension, which may give the baby more room to move. Always discuss positioning concerns with your OB-GYN or midwife.

How often should I come in? It varies by trimester and symptoms. Many patients come weekly in the third trimester. Dr. Val will recommend a schedule after your first visit.

Do I need a referral from my OB-GYN? No referral is needed, but we recommend letting your provider know you're receiving chiropractic care.

Feel More Comfortable During Your Pregnancy

Call Actus Chiropractic at (925) 516-2363 or request an appointment online(opens in new tab). We care for expecting moms from Brentwood, Oakley, Antioch, Discovery Bay, Byron and Knightsen.