If you're pregnant and looking into chiropractic care, there's a good chance you've come across the term "Webster Technique" and probably wondered exactly what that means. I hear this question often from moms-to-be here in Toledo, and I love getting to explain it, because it's one of my favorite things to talk about.

The short answer: the Webster Technique is a specific, gentle chiropractic method designed to support your body during pregnancy by restoring balance to the pelvis and reducing tension in the surrounding muscles and ligaments. It's not just about back pain (though it helps with that, too). It's about giving your body, and your baby, the best possible environment as you prepare for birth.

What exactly is the Webster Technique?
The Webster Technique was developed by Dr. Larry Webster, founder of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA). It centers on analyzing and gently adjusting the sacrum (aka your tailbone or the triangular bone at the base of your spine) along with releasing soft tissue tension in the round ligaments that support the uterus.

When the pelvis is balanced and those ligaments aren't tight or restricted, your uterus has more room. Your baby has more room to move freely, find a comfortable position, and ideally settle into an optimal position for birth. And you? You tend to feel a whole lot more comfortable along the way.

The technique is known for being gentle and specific. There's no twisting of the torso or high-force adjustments. Everything is adapted to your changing body and where you are in your pregnancy.

Why do pregnant women seek out a Webster-certified chiropractor?
There are a few reasons moms-to-be find their way to prenatal chiropractic care and to the Webster Technique specifically:

      - Lower back and hip pain. As your body shifts its center of gravity and your ligaments relax (thanks, relaxin!), your pelvis can move into positions that create real discomfort. Gentle adjustments can make a big difference.
      - Pelvic girdle pain and sciatica. When the sacroiliac joints aren't moving as they should, the surrounding nerves can be irritated. Many of my pregnant patients find significant relief from sciatica after Webster care.
      - Preparing for labor. A well-balanced pelvis means your body is better positioned to labor efficiently. Many midwives and doulas in Toledo refer their clients specifically for Webster care as birth approaches.
      - Baby positioning. While the Webster Technique isn't technically a "baby turning" technique, when the uterus has more space and less tension, babies often have more freedom to find their own optimal position. Many families have had positive experiences with this, and it's why Webster care is so often recommended in the third trimester.

Is it safe during pregnancy?
Yes! When performed by a certified provider like Dr. Caroline, the Webster Technique is considered safe throughout pregnancy. Because we work with pregnant patients every day, we use specialized techniques and supportive pillows to ensure you're fully comfortable during your adjustment.

Dr. Caroline is proud to be Webster Technique certified through the ICPA, which means she has completed specific training in this method and its application throughout the full prenatal journey. She is also continuing her training toward the CACCP certification, the highest level of pediatric chiropractic credentialing, because we believe the families we serve deserve the most thorough, up-to-date care possible.

What does a Webster appointment actually look like?
At Simply Well Family Chiropractic, every appointment starts with a conversation. We want to know where you're feeling tension, how your body has changed since your last visit, and how baby is positioned. From there, Dr. Caroline will assess your sacrum and pelvic alignment and provide a targeted, gentle adjustment — all while you're in a position that's comfortable and safe for you and baby.

Most patients feel relaxed and at ease during and after their appointment. Many tell us they sleep better, move more freely, and feel noticeably less discomfort in the days following a visit. Prenatal chiropractic care is designed to meet you where you are in your pregnancy, whether you're eight weeks in and just starting to feel changes, or thirty-six weeks and counting the days.

How often should I come in?
Every pregnancy is different, and we tailor our care plans to what your body actually needs. That said, many of our prenatal patients come in every 2-3 weeks throughout their second trimester, and more frequently as they move into the third. If you're experiencing significant discomfort or have specific concerns about baby's positioning, we may recommend a more consistent schedule.

The most important thing is that you feel supported, informed, and comfortable every step of the way. That's what we're here for!

Ready to learn more?
If you're pregnant and curious about whether prenatal chiropractic care might be right for you, we would love to chat. We're located in Toledo at Renaissance Place and are currently accepting new patients. You can book online, call us, or send us a text!

Your body is doing something remarkable. Let's make sure it has all the support it needs to do it well.

📍 Dr. Caroline Lathrop, DC, IBCLC is a Webster-certified chiropractor at Simply Well Family Chiropractic in Toledo, Ohio. She specializes in prenatal, perinatal, and pediatric care, and offers chiropractic, acupuncture, and lactation services.