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A Positive Adjustment

Is Chiropractic Care Right for You?

By Patti Larson

Jeffrey Ptak, a chiropractor in Santa Monica, Calif., explains why chiropractic care can make such a positive difference, especially during pregnancy. "Chiropractic care addresses the functioning nervous system," he says. "When the nervous system is not unduly stressed from environmental factors – physical, emotional or chemical stress – the body will work according to its unique genetic plan," he says. "A stressful birth will stress all parties involved and remain until the nervous system stress is cleared. Chiropractic, by allowing the body to handle stress, helps expecting mothers, new mothers and their newborn children handle life with greater ease."

Once home from the hospital, I naturally swapped stories with friends and relatives who had already experienced the wonders of childbirth, and because of the seeming baby boom around me, I was able to share with the may who delivered only weeks after I did.

What I learned was shocking. More than a few women I spoke with, my age and younger, were bedridden as early as their first term. Several had delivered preemies or shared tales of excruciating labor. One friend experienced 30 hours of back labor. None of these women had chiropractic care during pregnancy.

Want to see more?

• Acupuncture: Relief Right to the Point
• The Art of Prenatal Massage
• The Right Touch: Massage for Prenatal Health and Comfort
• Talk about it!