References
Chiropractic care of the pregnant woman and neonate
Abstract
The history and values of the chiropractic profession are part of the complementary and alternate medicine model. Chiropractic care in pregnancy is used for relief of back pain, turning breech presenting fetuses, and treatment of colic, breastfeeding and constipation issues in the neonate.
Chiropractic practice is based on the theory that alterations to the biomechanics of the spinal and extraspinal structures, such as the cranial and mandible bones, can lead to altered neural signals being sent to the spine (Mullen et al, 2010). Subluxation of the spinal column and other articulations can interfere with neurological function, disrupting homeostatic balance, which may symptomatically and adversely affect health (Homola, 2016). Using chiropractic adjustment, the biomechanics are corrected, thereby restoring and improving function (Alcantara et al, 2015). Chiropractic practice has been defined as a process of diagnosis and treatment based on the role of the nervous system in co-ordinating all of the body's functions, and the idea that disease results from a lack of normal nerve function. Chiropractic alternative medicine is part of the complementary therapies model, specifically relating to manipulative and body-based methods (Shaukat Ali et al, 2018). However, chiropractic treatment is not available on the NHS and would only be available for pregnant women and parents willing or able to pay.
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