The Webster Technique for Pregnant Women: What It Is, Benefits, and Safety
The Webster Technique is a gentle, specialized chiropractic method aimed at balancing the pelvis and sacrum during pregnancy. Originally developed by Dr. Larry Webster in the 1980s, the technique focuses on reducing uterine constraint and optimizing pelvic alignment to support a healthier pregnancy.
Certified practitioners go through specific training (often around 12–180 hours) through the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA), learning to identify and correct sacral or pelvic misalignments effectively.
How Does a Webster Adjustment Work?
Here’s what you can typically expect during a session:
Initial Assessment
The chiropractor starts with checking pelvic symmetry, leg length, gait, and sacral position. Imbalances often indicate tension in pelvic structures.Gentle Adjustment
Using a specialized pregnancy pillow and a drop table or instrument-assisted tools, the doctor gently adjusts the sacrum or pelvic joints to ease pelvic tension.Soft Tissue Work
This may include massage or myofascial release to relax ligaments and support pelvic balance, often around the abdomen.Post-Session Care
Hydration and gentle movement afterward support healing and circulation.
Potential Benefits for Expectant Mothers
Supports Pelvic Alignment & Function
Helps ease pressure on the pelvis and sacrum, which can improve comfort.Relieves Discomfort
Many expectant moms report reduced back pain, sciatica, and pelvic tension.May Encourage Baby to Move into Optimal Position
By correcting uterine constraint, it can support the natural turning of a breech baby—though it doesn’t involve manually turning the baby.May Shorten Labor
Some studies suggest chiropractic care, including Webster, may reduce labor duration—e.g., one study noted a 24–39% reduction in labor time with prenatal chiropractic care.
What Research Shows
High Success Rate, Small Samples
A 2002 survey of ICPA practitioners found 82% reported resolution of breech presentation via Webster adjustments.Mixed Evidence
Later individual case studies in 2020 showed effective breech correction, while others—such as in cases with low amniotic fluid—reported no change.Need for Stronger Studies
Overall, evidence is promising, but larger, controlled trials are needed for more definitive conclusions.
