What is the Webster Technique? A gentle way to support your pregnancy
Pregnancy is beautiful. But let’s be real, it can also be uncomfortable. From low back pain to sleeping struggles to that awkward “baby is stuck on one side” feeling, it’s not uncommon for your body to feel out of sync during this season of change.
As a chiropractor who works closely with moms and moms-to-be, I’m here to tell you: You don’t have to suffer through it. One of my favorite tools to support pregnant patients is a specialized chiropractic method called the Webster Technique. If you’re pregnant, it could be just what your body is craving.
Let’s break it down…
What is the Webster Technique?
The Webster Technique is a specific chiropractic analysis and adjustment designed specifically for pregnant people. It focuses on the pelvis, sacrum, and surrounding soft tissues. All the areas that are under a lot of stress as your baby grows and your body changes.
The Webster Technique is not a breech turn technique. Instead, it’s all about creating optimal alignment and balance in the pelvis, which can allow your baby to get into the best possible position on their own.
Think of it like making more space in the womb by taking pressure off of tight muscles and joints. When your pelvis is balanced, your uterus is too. With balance we create a more supportive environment for baby and a more comfortable experience for you.
Why Pelvic Balance Matters in Pregnancy
During pregnancy, your pelvis plays a huge role in both your comfort and your baby’s positioning. Most women don’t realize that their uterus is attached to their tailbone! Which means when your pelvis is misaligned, there can be tension on your uterus. This tension can cause restrictions in baby movement and more discomfort for you, especially in your hips, your low back, and pubic bone.
Balanced pelvis = balanced uterus = happy mama + happy baby.
Who can Benefit from the Webster Technique?
If you’re pregnant, there’s a good chance the Webster Technique could help you feel more aligned and at ease. It’s especially helpful if you’re experiencing:
Low back or hip pain
Round ligament pain
Baby favoring one side of your belly
Sciatica
Pubic symphysis discomfort
Trouble walking or sleeping
Baby in a non-optimal position late in pregnancy [breech, transverse, etc.]
Or maybe you’re not in pain at all [yay!] but you simply want to support your body naturally as you prepare for labor and birth.
Either way, the Webster technique can be a beautiful addition to your prenatal care.
Benefits of the webster technique
While every mama’s body is unique, many pregnant patients report:
Reduced low back, hip, and pelvic pain
Improved sleep and mobility
More comfortable baby movement
Better posture and less “waddling”
Confidence going into labor and birth
Space for baby to settle into an ideal position
What to Expect during a Webster Technique Appointment
During your first appointment, we collected a detailed history of your healthy and specifics relayed to your pregnancy journey. We will talk through how you’ve been feeling, what symptoms [if any] you’re experiencing and what your goals are for care.
Your treatment will begin with a gentle assessment of your posture, pelvis, and range of motion. For adjustments, we use a specialty pregnancy pillow and chiropractic table to tailor care to your comfort and stage of pregnancy. I will use specific adjustments to align the sacrum [tailbone]. We will also address tension in soft tissues that play a role in pelvic alignment including the round ligament, Sacrotuberous ligament, the Iliopsoas and piriformis muscles.
There’s no aggressive adjustments…just gentle movements that help your body balance. Most moms leave feeling lighter and looser.
Is the Webster Technique Safe?
Absolutely. The webster technique is safe for both you and your baby. It’s gentle and non-invasive. We will talk through what we are doing as we care for you, and we never want to extend past your comfort zone.
Webster Technique vs. Regular Chiropractic Adjustments
While traditional chiropractic care can be beneficial during pregnancy, the Webster Technique is specifically designed for the prenatal body.
It goes beyond the spine, addressing ligaments, joints, and soft tissue tension unique to pregnancy. It’s like having a chiropractor who’s not only trained in alignment, but also understands the birth space your body is creating.
Focused technique tailored to prenatal anatomy
Incorporates ligament and muscle work
More than “just cracking a back”—intentional and maternal-centered
Webster Technique FAQ
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No. The goal is to reduce pelvic tension so baby has more space to find their best position—sometimes that results in baby turning.
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Yes! It can be safely used throughout pregnancy and often recommended starting in the second trimester.
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It depends on your needs and goals. Some moms come monthly. Other moms find benefits with weekly or biweekly appointments, especially as the due date approaches.
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Not at all! It is gentle and tailored to your comfort.
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Absolutely! Chiropractic care supports all birth preferences—hospital, home, or birth center.
