The Webster Technique: A chiropractic technique with obstetric implications

Pregnancy and chiropractic: a narrative review of the literature

“…The doctors reported that they found favorable results in relieving the constraints that may be contributory to the malposition of the fetus, and 92% of cases resulted in resolution of the breech position. 23 These results are especially meaningful because 3% to 4.6% of all pregnancies result in a breech position. 24 If uncorrected, many of these presentations require cesarean delivery.…”

“…22 In addition, a specific chiropractic adjustment called the Webster Technique has been reported by chiropractors who use it to correct potential musculoskeletal causes of intrauterine constraint. 23 Intrauterine constraint is defined as any force external to the developing fetus that obstructs the normal movement of the fetus. The technique is focused particularly on women in the eighth month of pregnancy with breech presentation.…”

“…Although some fetuses in the breech position will convert before 34 weeks of gestation, data indicate that only about 9% will do so spontaneously. 23 The chiropractor's role in breech presentation is to balance the pelvis and corresponding muscles and ligaments to remove the constraint to the patient's uterus to allow the fetus to assume the correct presenting position. 26 At no time does the chiropractor attempt to change the position of the fetus, as is done with external cephalic version; the chiropractor only attempts to correct a potential cause of intrauterine constraint.…”

“…26 At no time does the chiropractor attempt to change the position of the fetus, as is done with external cephalic version; the chiropractor only attempts to correct a potential cause of intrauterine constraint. 23 The authors of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association survey have suggested that this technique be further investigated regarding its role in the care of this population. 23 Evidence also exists that women who exercise during pregnancy have more energy, fewer mood swings, are able to manage stress more effectively, and achieve more restful sleep compared with sedentary pregnant women.…”

“…23 The authors of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association survey have suggested that this technique be further investigated regarding its role in the care of this population. 23 Evidence also exists that women who exercise during pregnancy have more energy, fewer mood swings, are able to manage stress more effectively, and achieve more restful sleep compared with sedentary pregnant women. 27 Women who exercise gain 21% less weight throughout gestation; enjoy shorter, easier labors (decreased by an average of 2 hours); experience fewer medical interventions (24% fewer cesarean deliveries and 14% reduction in use of forceps); experience less fetal distress; and enjoy a faster recovery.…”