For centuries, therapeutic massage has been used as a successful method for reducing stress, relieving muscle tension and boosting our overall physical and emotional wellbeing. There are many times during our lives when we can particularly benefit from such effects, including during pregnancy.
Whilst being a joyful time that is full of excitement at your pending arrival, there is no doubt that pregnancy puts a great deal of strain on the body. Your muscles and spine are adapting to the added weight of your growing baby, and your posture will change to compensate for the imbalance caused by your expanding abdomen. Gaining weight, lack of sleep, joint pain, muscle aches and poor circulation are all common issues associated with pregnancy. Fortunately, they are all problems that can be improved through the use of pregnancy massage.
We are delighted to be able to offer pregnancy massage in Chicago, IL. Here is what you need to know about this valuable treatment.
Pregnancy massage is very similar to a regular massage except that the techniques used are adapted to suit the shape of the mother and her individual requirements. For example, instead of lying on your front, you will usually be laid on your side, which is the most comfortable and natural position for an expectant mother. It is also the best position for your unborn baby.
Some of the techniques that we offer include:
Swedish Massage: the most popular massage technique, this involves using long strokes over tight muscles that help to relax your body and mind.
Deep-tissue Massage: a firmer variety of massage that penetrates deeper into the muscles, helping to release tension and boost blood flow around the body.
Exactly which technique is right for you will depend on your individual circumstances and our team will be happy to recommend the most appropriate variety.
It is always advisable to consult with your doctor or midwife before you opt for any sort of chiropractic treatment to make sure that the experience doesn’t pose any risks for you. Pregnancy massage is often not recommended for patients who are in their first trimester, have high blood pressure or have a high risk of going into premature labor. For this reason, be sure that your pregnancy massage is carried out by a certified, trained and experienced practitioner, and your midwife doesn’t advise against it.
There are a wide range of different benefits that have been associated with pregnancy massage, making it a very popular choice amongst expectant mothers. Some of the most notable benefits cited by previous patients include:
A reduction in joint pain, particularly in the knees, hips and ankles.
Relief from aching muscles.
Reduced back pain – something that is very common in the later stages of pregnancy when the size of your abdomen forces you to make a significant change to your posture.
A reduction in pressure on the sciatic nerve, a very common problem amongst women in late pregnancy as the pressure of the uterus places tension on the muscles of the upper and lower legs, causing them to swell and in turn place pressure on the nerves.
Improved circulation.
Reduced edema (fluid retention) – something which is common in the legs and ankles in the third trimester.
Reduced stress and anxiety.
Improved quality of sleep.
If you are interested in finding out more about the benefits of pregnancy massage, or you are looking for a qualified and experienced practitioner to perform pregnancy massages in Chicago, IL, look no further than our professional chiropractic team. Contact us today by calling 773-665-4400.