Webster Technique Care in Lake Forest, CA
The Webster Technique is a specialized chiropractic adjustment aimed at optimizing pelvic alignment during pregnancy. It can help reduce discomfort and support proper fetal positioning.
Dr. Ron Merriel, DC, brings many years of experience into this gentle and effective technique, helping expectant mothers alleviate common pregnancy discomforts like lower back pain, sciatica, and pelvic imbalances. At Go Greenlight Chiropractic, we focus on enhancing mobility, reducing tension, and promoting a smoother labor and delivery experience.
If you have concerns about your pregnancy or want to know more about the Webster Technique, our team is happy to assist you.
A consultation can help you understand whether this approach is right for your stage of pregnancy and what care may look like.
What Is Webster Technique?
The Webster technique is a chiropractic technique used specifically for pregnant women. The goal is to release tension within the lower back and hips to prepare the body for childbirth.
During pregnancy, certain ligaments become very tight, often more on one side than the other. The Webster technique addresses two of these specifically: the sacrotuberous ligament and the round ligament. Alongside those ligaments, any tight musculature in the area is also addressed. The adjustments focus on the lower back and hips to bring everything into balance.
What to Expect During Webster Technique
The exam and treatment follow the same general process as a standard chiropractic visit. Dr. Merriel takes a thorough patient history, including any prior accidents or injuries, previous chiropractic care, and any existing conditions such as osteoarthritis of the spine. Since X-rays are not taken during pregnancy, the exam relies on palpation and the patient’s history.
Depending on how far along the pregnancy is, positioning during treatment may be modified. For example, a side-lying position may be used for the low back adjustment rather than a face-down position.
The Webster protocol works through adjustments combined with soft-tissue work on the ligaments and surrounding musculature. A lot of pregnant women carry significant tension in the lower back and hips. The baby’s position, size, and other individual factors all create imbalances that the treatment works to correct.
Why Is Webster Technique So Important for Expecting Mothers?
As the baby grows, increased weight and posture changes can cause pelvic misalignment, restricting the baby’s movement and causing discomfort for the mother.
Most pregnant women come into our clinic with low back tension and hip tension. As the pregnancy progresses, ligaments throughout the body naturally relax to make room for the baby and prepare for delivery. While this is a normal part of pregnancy, it also means the pelvis shifts more easily, which can create imbalances in the lower back and hips. When that happens, specific ligaments like the sacrotuberous and round ligaments can become tight on one side, causing discomfort when standing or sitting for long periods.
The Webster technique addresses those specific imbalances. Which side the baby is positioned on, the baby’s size, and other individual factors all play a role in where the tension builds up. Regular adjustments help keep the pelvis balanced throughout the pregnancy.
It is easier to maintain that balance with ongoing care than to try to correct it after significant tension has built up.
Webster Technique During Active Labor
Patient Info: Woman in her second pregnancy, referred by a doula. She is a scientist at the University of Pennsylvania.
Symptoms: She had been in labor for approximately 16 hours. Her first delivery had taken over 10 hours of labor. She came in exhausted and in significant discomfort.
Treatment: Dr. Merriel performed the Webster technique. The visit took place on a Friday evening. He asked her to get back to him after the weekend to let him know how the delivery went.
Outcome: When Dr. Merriel called her on Monday, she told him that as she was leaving the office, her water broke. She went right to the hospital and had the baby within an hour. Her previous labor had lasted over 10 hours. This time, it was done within an hour of leaving the office. She was extremely happy.
Patient Testimonials & Reviews
Book an Appointment for Webster Technique in Lake Forest, CA
Invest in your well-being with expert care at Go Greenlight Chiropractic. Take the first step toward a more comfortable pregnancy by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Ron Merriel.
Contact us to book an appointment for the Webster Technique in Lake Forest or Spring Valley.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Webster Technique safe during pregnancy?
Yes, the Webster Technique is safe during pregnancy. It is a gentle, non-invasive chiropractic adjustment that promotes pelvic alignment, reduces discomfort, and supports optimal fetal positioning without any harm to the baby.
How many Webster Technique sessions will I need?
The number of sessions varies depending on the severity of your condition. Many patients begin to feel relief after a few sessions, but the total number will be determined by Dr. Ron Merriel.
Does the Webster Technique hurt?
The Webster Technique is generally painless. It involves gentle, precise adjustments that aim to reduce discomfort and improve pelvic alignment, with minimal to no pain during or after treatment.
How long does a Webster Technique session take?
A typical Webster Technique session lasts between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on your specific needs and the level of adjustment required for your condition.
Do I need approval from my OB-GYN before starting care?
It is not always necessary, but it’s recommended to consult your OB-GYN before starting the Webster Technique, especially if you have any high-risk pregnancy concerns or pre-existing conditions.
Can the Webster Technique help reduce pregnancy-related back pain?
Yes, the Webster Technique is highly effective for relieving pregnancy-related back pain by improving pelvic alignment, reducing muscle tension, and supporting proper posture throughout pregnancy.
Can this technique flip a breech baby?
No. It doesn’t directly reposition the baby. It relieves tension and aligns the pelvis to allow more room for the baby to move naturally.
What are the side effects of the Webster Technique?
It’s a gentle, low-risk technique. Some women may feel mild soreness after the first adjustment, similar to post-workout muscle tightness.
What is the success rate of the Webster Technique?
While not designed to turn babies, many women report improved comfort and increased likelihood of baby repositioning when pelvic balance is restored.
Are breech babies more painful to carry?
Breech positioning may cause additional pressure and discomfort due to limited space or fetal alignment. The Webster Technique can help create more room and relieve strain.
How successful is the Webster Technique at 36 weeks?
It can still be helpful. While earlier care is ideal, even at 36 weeks, it can relieve pelvic tension and possibly support natural repositioning of the baby.
How to turn baby’s head down naturally?
Maintaining pelvic alignment, daily movement (like walking or gentle stretches), and specific prenatal chiropractic care can encourage natural movement of the baby.
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