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Wednesday, February 8, 2012

Webster Technique and Breech Babies

It is estimated that 25-30% of babies are in a breech position before 28 weeks, but only about 3-4% after 34 weeks.  Most of the presentations before 28 weeks are likely just baby exploring her limited world.   That world starts getting pretty cramped around 34 weeks so baby will naturally find the most comfortable position she can.  In some cases, because of changes in the shape of the uterus, that most comfortable position is a breech position. 

Breech presentation adds significant risk to baby, including risk of trauma and lack of oxygen.  The common medical solution to this is to perform a Caesarean birth, but that carries its own set of risks for mom and baby.  Dr. Larry Webster developed a specific adjusting technique used to realign the sacrum and remove stress from the uterus.  In a study done by the ICPA (International Chiropractic Pediatric Association) they studied the cases of 61 expectant mothers that presented with babies in breech position.  They found that in 70% of the cases there was a restoration of proper baby positioning.


Pregnant mothers have been finding relief with chiropractic care for low back pain and leg pain for decades, but the evidence is increasing that we can help improve many aspects of pregnancy.