What is Webster Technique?
Webster technique was developed by Dr. Larry Webster. As defined by the ICPA; “The Webster technique is a specific chiropractic analysis and diversified adjustment. The goal of the adjustment is to reduce the effects of subluxation and/or SI Joint dysfunction. In so doing neurobiomechanical function in the sacral/pelvic region is improved.” The Webster technique has become a staple among chiropractors who work with pregnancies. Other providers often refer us clients in their third trimester with breach babies. While the Webster technique seems to have that stigma for breach babies, I must emphasis:
WEBSTER TECHNIQUE IS NOT FOR TURNING BREACH BABIES.
What Can Webster Help With?
We often see moms in their third trimester seeking care from chiropractors trained and certified in the Webster Technique. Usually in response to discomfort or specific concerns as they prepare for birth. The primary goal of the Webster Technique is to support a more comfortable, safer, and smoother birthing experience. We do this by gently restoring balance to the pelvis and surrounding structures.
Through this technique, we’re able to work safely and effectively with expecting mothers. Creating an optimal environment for both mom and baby. By improving the biomechanical function of the pelvis, many moms experience greater comfort, reduced tension, and more freedom of movement as their bodies prepare for labor.
While every pregnancy is unique, we’ve personally witnessed meaningful improvements in many women under Webster care. Here are just a few of the changes we commonly see in moms who receive consistent chiropractic care using this technique.
- Reducing Pubic Symphysis Pain: By addressing imbalances in the round ligaments, sacrum, and surrounding tissues. The Webster Technique can reduce discomfort in the pubic symphysis. The round ligament runs past the pubic symphysis and when under stress can pull on the tissues around the joint. Often times can lead to inflammation and swelling around the joint. Ultimately leading to a lot of discomfort in the area.
- Reducing Pelvic & Low Back Pain: by addressing imbalances in the round ligaments, sacrum, and surrounding tissues, the Webster Technique can reduce discomfort in the lower back, hips, and abdomen, areas commonly affected in pregnancy.
- Reducing In- Utero Constraint: When the pelvis is misaligned, it can place tension on the uterine ligaments and restrict the space available for the baby to move. The Webster Technique helps reduce intrauterine constraint, allowing the baby more room to assume the best possible position for birth. ONCE AGAIN WE DO NOT TURN BABIES.
- Supporting Optimal Baby Positioning: While chiropractic care DOES NOT turn breech babies. The Webster Technique is known for improving pelvic alignment. Which can encourage babies to shift into a head-down position on their own. Many midwives and OBs refer to chiropractors trained in Webster for this reason.
- Supporting A Smoother Labor & Delivery: A balanced pelvis may contribute to a more efficient labor by promoting optimal baby positioning and reducing the chance of dystocia (difficult or stalled labor). Chiropractors often adjust the sacrum while performing the Webster Technique and regular chiropractic adjustments, which partly explains these results. The Sacrum being able to freely move through pregnancy helps the baby descend through the pelvic canal and into our world.
Conclusion:
While the Webster Technique offers many benefits for expectant mothers, it’s important to understand that chiropractic care is about more than just addressing problems once they arise. While many providers refer to chiropractors for concerns like baby malposition or pregnancy-related discomfort. Like many family-focused chiropractors, I focus my approach on prevention.
Rather than waiting for challenges to appear, we aim to keep the body in optimal alignment before, during, and after pregnancy. This proactive care supports your body’s ability to adapt, function, and prepare for a healthy birth experience.
While no approach can guarantee the avoidance of complications, maintaining proper pelvic and spinal alignment throughout pregnancy can significantly reduce risk factors and create the ideal environment for both mom and baby.
Chiropractic care has consistently been shown to be safe, gentle, and effective during pregnancy, and it continues to be one of the most empowering investments you can make in your overall health and birth experience.