Resolution Of Breech Presentation And Successful Vaginal Birth With Chiropractic

From the January 16, 2012, issue of the Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health is a case study that documents the successful outcome of a case of breech pregnancy with chiropractic care. Breech presentation is when the fetus in positioned for delivery feet-first, instead of the correct “vertex” head-first position.

In this case study, a 33-year-old woman was 8 months pregnant with her second child. Her first birth was normal with no problems reported. The woman had been seeing a midwife during the pregnancy who determined that the child was breech late in the woman’s pregnancy. The woman was directed to see a chiropractor who works with pregnant women.

A chiropractic examination was performed with thermal scans and surface EMG scans showing asymmetry in the lower spine. It was determined that muscle spasm and subluxations were present. Chiropractic care was initiated using a specific technique known as Webster technique, along with specific adjustments to correct the subluxations present.

The results of this case documented that after the ninth adjustment the baby was in the normal vertex position. Shortly after this, the mother was able to deliver her baby normally without any complications.

This case study also reported on seven previously published cases in which there was a documented resolution of breech pregnancy using chiropractic care. Additionally, the report noted a retrospective study of 104 pregnant women all being helped under chiropractic care.

In their conclusion, the study authors summed up this case with advice by saying, “When a pregnant mother with a breeched infant is faced with a course of action that could impact her and her childs life forever, all options must be explored. The traditional medical routes are effective, yet come along with some very serious risks that must be considered. Although more research needs to be done on the Webster Technique and chiropractic care during pregnancy, they are both extremely safe and effective ways to alter fetal position to allow for the best delivery possible.”