Pregnancy Chiropractic Service

SERVICES

Pregnancy Chiropractic Service

Pregnancy Chiropractic services

You Deserve to Feel Good During Your Pregnancy

Your body is doing something miraculous. You’re growing a human being. But that doesn’t mean you have to suffer through nine months of discomfort.

Maybe you’re dealing with lower back pain that makes it hard to get out of bed. Or sciatica that shoots down your leg every time you stand up. Maybe your hips ache so much at night that you can’t find a comfortable sleeping position. Round ligament pain catches you off guard, and the headaches won’t quit.

When you mention these symptoms to your OB, you’re told it’s “normal” and to just take Tylenol. Your friends say to push through it. But you’re wondering: Isn’t there a better way?

You’ve tried over-the-counter pain relievers, stretching, heating pads. Nothing seems to really fix the problem.

Common pregnancy discomforts we help with:

Lower back pain and pelvic pain
Sciatica (nerve pain radiating down the legs)
Round ligament pain
Hip pain and instability
Neck tension and headaches
Difficulty sleeping due to discomfort
General body aches and muscle tension

You didn’t sign up to just survive pregnancy. You want to thrive during this incredible time. And you absolutely can.

Safe, Gentle Chiropractic Care Designed for Your Changing Body

Here’s what’s happening in your body right now:

During pregnancy, your body releases a hormone called relaxin that loosens your ligaments and joints to prepare for birth. While this is necessary for delivery, it also means your body loses some of its normal stability. Your center of gravity shifts forward, your posture changes, and your spine works harder to compensate for the growing weight of your baby.

This can lead to misalignment in your pelvis and spine, which puts pressure on your nerves, creates inflammation, and causes pain.

Pregnancy chiropractic care helps by:

Restoring proper alignment to your spine and pelvis
Reducing pressure on your nervous system
Relieving muscle tension and inflammation
Supporting optimal baby positioning
Improving your body’s ability to adapt to the changes of pregnancy

The research backs this up. Studies show that chiropractic care during pregnancy is safe and effective for reducing pain, improving comfort, and even supporting easier labor and delivery.

And here’s what makes pregnancy chiropractic different:

No lying flat on your stomach (we use special pregnancy pillows)
Gentle techniques designed specifically for pregnant bodies
Adjustments are modified for your comfort and safety
Focus on supporting your body, not forcing it

This is care that honors your body’s wisdom while giving it the support it needs.

Webster Technique Certified: Specialized Training for Pregnancy Care

Not all chiropractors are trained to work with pregnant women. That’s why Dr. Andrea Herrst has pursued additional certification in the Webster Technique, a specialized chiropractic analysis and adjustment designed specifically for pregnancy.

What is the Webster Technique?

The Webster Technique focuses on creating balance in the pelvis by reducing tension and misalignment. When your pelvis is balanced, your baby has more room to move into the optimal position for birth (head down, facing your back). This can reduce the likelihood of breech or posterior positions and support an easier, smoother labor.

The Webster Technique is:

Gentle: No forceful adjustments. Light pressure and specific positioning help your pelvis stay balanced.
Safe: Recognized by the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) and used successfully for decades by chiropractors trained in prenatal care.
Effective: Research shows that women receiving chiropractic care during pregnancy often report shorter labor times and less need for interventions.

Why Dr. Andrea chose to specialize in Webster Technique: “I became a chiropractor because I wanted to help people experience health naturally, without drugs or surgery. When I started working with pregnant women and saw how transformative this care could be, I knew I wanted to specialize. The Webster Technique allows me to support women during one of the most important times of their lives. I’ve seen mothers go from constant pain to feeling strong and confident. I’ve watched babies move into better positions, and I’ve heard birth stories that were empowering instead of traumatic. This work matters, and I’m honored to do it.”

What Makes Our Chiropractic Care Different

Many chiropractic offices run like assembly lines. You’re in and out in 10 minutes.The chiropractor barely talks to you. You get the same adjustment as everyone else, whether it fits your needs or not.That’s not how I practice.When you come to see me, you get my full attention. Your first visit is a full hour. We talk about your pain, your health history, what you’ve tried before, and what your goals are. Then I do a thorough examination to understand what’s actually happening in your body.

Individualized Care for Your Unique Body

Every person is different. Every body is different. That’s why I use different techniques based on what YOU need.

Some people respond well to manual adjustments. Others do better with gentle instrument-based techniques like the Activator. I’ll find what works best for your body and your comfort level.

If you’re nervous about chiropractic care, let me know. We’ll start with the gentlest approach and only do what you’re comfortable with.

Individualized Care for Your Unique Body

I don’t just look at your spine. I look at your whole body, your lifestyle, your stress levels, and other factors that might be contributing to your pain.

Sometimes chiropractic care works even better when combined with other approaches. That’s why I offer homeopathy, therapeutic massage, and other complementary therapies when they make sense for your situation.

The goal is always the same: help you feel better and function better.

Free consultation? Yes. I want to make sure we’re a good fit before you commit to anything. Your first visit is always a free consultation where we can discuss your concerns and see if chiropractic care is right for you.

What Is Chiropractic Care?

Chiropractic care focuses on your spine and nervous system. Your spine protects your spinal cord, which is the main pathway for communication between your brain and your body.

When bones in your spine (vertebrae) get out of alignment, it can interfere with that communication. This can cause pain, stiffness, muscle tension, and other problems throughout your body.

Chiropractic adjustments gently move those vertebrae back into proper alignment. This takes pressure off nerves, reduces inflammation, and allows your body to heal naturally.

It’s safe, effective, and doesn’t require medications or surgery.

Common Conditions We Treat with Chiropractic Care

What Is Chiropractic Care?

I’m trained in multiple chiropractic techniques, which means I can tailor your care to what works best for your body and your comfort level.

Diversified Technique
The most common chiropractic technique. Gentle manual adjustments using the hands to restore proper movement and alignment to your spine and joints.
Activator Method
A small, hand-held instrument that delivers a gentle impulse to the spine. This is great for people who prefer no manual manipulation or have conditions that require extra gentleness. Many patients find the Activator more comfortable, especially if they’re nervous about adjustments.
Manual Therapy
Soft tissue work, stretching, and mobilization techniques to release muscle tension and improve joint function. This complements chiropractic adjustments and helps your body respond better to care.

Your comfort matters. If you’re nervous about chiropractic adjustments, let me know. We’ll start with the gentlest approach and only do what you’re comfortable with. There’s no pressure to do anything that doesn’t feel right to you.

What Is the Webster Technique?

The Webster Technique is a specific chiropractic analysis and adjustment designed for pregnant women. It’s not regular chiropractic care adapted for pregnancy. It’s a technique created specifically to address the unique changes happening in your body during pregnancy.

Here’s what makes it different:

The Webster Technique focuses on one thing: balancing your pelvis. When your pelvis is balanced, three important things happen:

Your baby has more room to move into the optimal position for birth
Tension in your uterine ligaments is reduced
Your body can function the way it’s designed to during pregnancy and labor

This isn’t about “turning” breech babies. The Webster Technique doesn’t force your baby into any position. Instead, it removes the physical constraints that might be preventing your baby from getting into the best position on their own.

Why Certification Matters

Not all chiropractors are trained in the Webster Technique. And not all who use it are certified.

Here’s the difference:

Many chiropractors claim they “do” Webster Technique. But true certification requires additional training through the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA). This means documented education, hands-on training, and continued learning in prenatal and pediatric chiropractic care.

When you see a Webster Technique certified chiropractor, you’re getting:

Specialized training beyond general chiropractic education
Proper technique performed correctly
A provider who understands the unique needs of pregnant bodies
Care recognized by the gold standard organization for pediatric and prenatal chiropractic (ICPA)

I’m Webster Technique certified through ICPA. This certification ensures you’re receiving the real technique, done safely and effectively.

Benefits of Webster Technique Care

Supports Optimal Baby Positioning

When your pelvis is balanced, your baby has maximum room to get into the ideal position for birth (head down, facing your back). This can reduce the likelihood of breech, posterior, or transverse positions.

Research published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that 82% of breech presentations resolved with Webster Technique care.

May Reduce Labor Time and Interventions

Studies show that women receiving Webster Technique care during pregnancy often experience:

Shorter labor times
Less need for interventions like forceps or vacuum extraction
Lower rates of cesarean section

When your pelvis is balanced and your baby is in optimal position, labor typically progresses more smoothly.

Relieves Pregnancy Discomfort

While Webster Technique focuses on pelvic balance, many women experience relief from:

Lower back pain
Sciatica (shooting leg pain)
Round ligament pain
Pelvic pain and instability

Safe and Gentle

The Webster Technique has been used safely for over 30 years by certified chiropractors. The adjustments are gentle, comfortable, and designed specifically for pregnant bodies.

What Happens During Your Visit

Initial Consultation (First Visit, 15-20 minutes)

We’ll discuss your pregnancy, any concerns about baby’s position, and your birth goals. I’ll explain exactly how the Webster Technique works and answer all your questions.

Webster Analysis (10 minutes)

I’ll perform a gentle examination to assess:

Sacral alignment (your tailbone area)
Pelvic balance
Round ligament tension (the ligaments that support your uterus)
Overall spinal alignment

Everything is done in comfortable positions. No discomfort, no invasive procedures.

The Webster Adjustment (10-15 minutes)

You’ll lie comfortably on your side on a special pregnancy table. Using gentle, specific pressure, I’ll:

Adjust your sacrum to restore proper alignment
Release tension in the round ligaments
Help rebalance your pelvis

There’s no twisting, no forceful movements, and no lying on your stomach. Most women find the adjustment relaxing

Education and Care Plan (5 minutes)

After your adjustment, I’ll explain what I found and what I did. You’ll receive tips for maintaining balance at home, and we’ll create a care plan tailored to your needs.

Total visit time: 30-45 minutes for your first visit, 20-30 minutes for follow-up visits.

When to Start Webster Technique Care

The short answer: As early as you want, but ideally starting in your second trimester.

First Trimester: You can start anytime. Early care helps establish good pelvic alignment from the beginning.

Second Trimester: This is the ideal time to begin. Your body is changing rapidly, and establishing balance now prevents issues later.

Third Trimester: It’s never too late. Even if you’re 36 weeks and your baby is breech, Webster Technique can still help. I’ve worked with many women in their final weeks of pregnancy with excellent results.

How often you’ll come in: Most women come weekly during the third trimester, though some need more or less frequent visits depending on their situation. We’ll create a plan that’s right for you.

Why Choose Dr. Andrea L. Herrst

Certified and Experienced

I’m Webster Technique certified through the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA). I’ve provided Webster Technique care to hundreds of pregnant women throughout the Greater Lansing area.

Specialized in Women’s Health

Pregnancy and women’s health isn’t just one of many things I do. It’s my specialty. It’s what I focus on. When you come to see me, you’re seeing someone who truly understands the unique needs of pregnant bodies.

Whole-Person Care

I don’t just adjust your pelvis and send you on your way. I take time to educate you, answer your questions, and support you throughout your pregnancy journey. You’ll feel cared for, not rushed.

Credentials

Doctor of Chiropractic, Western States Chiropractic College
Webster Technique Certified (ICPA)
Specializing in Women’s Health and Prenatal Care
Serving Grand Ledge, MI and surrounding communities

Common Questions About Chiropractic Care

Is chiropractic care safe?

Yes. Chiropractic care is one of the safest, most effective treatments for musculoskeletal pain. Serious complications are extremely rare. I use gentle techniques and always prioritize your safety and comfort.

Does it hurt?

Most people find adjustments relieving, not painful. You might feel pressure or hear a popping sound (which is just gas releasing from the joint), but it shouldn’t hurt. If you’re nervous, we can start with gentler techniques like the Activator.

How many visits will I need?

This varies by person and condition. Some people feel significantly better after just a few visits. Others need ongoing care to manage chronic conditions. We’ll discuss this during your consultation, and you’re always in control of your care plan.

What's that popping sound?

That’s just gas bubbles releasing from the joint when it moves. It’s completely normal and harmless. Not all adjustments make that sound, and you don’t need to hear it for the adjustment to be effective.

Do you take insurance?

I operate a cash-based practice and don’t accept insurance. This allows me to spend quality time with each patient without insurance restrictions dictating your care. I provide detailed receipts you can submit to your insurance for possible reimbursement.

What should I wear?

Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. You won’t need to change into a gown. Just wear something you can move easily in.

Can I come if I'm pregnant?

Absolutely! I specialize in pregnancy chiropractic care and use techniques specifically designed for pregnant bodies. Learn more about pregnancy chiropractic

What if chiropractic doesn't help?

If I don’t think chiropractic care is right for your situation, I’ll tell you. And if we try care and it’s not helping, I’ll refer you to someone who can help you better. Your wellbeing is more important than keeping you as a patient.

Schedule

Ready to Feel Better? Schedule Your Free Consultation

If you’re tired of living with pain and ready to try a natural, effective approach that actually addresses the root cause, I’d love to help you.

Book online now

Specialized Chiropractic Services

In addition to general chiropractic care, I offer specialized services for specific needs:

Pregnancy Chiropractic Care

Safe, gentle chiropractic care throughout all stages of pregnancy. Relief from back pain, sciatica, round ligament pain, and preparation for an easier birth.

Webster Technique

Specialized prenatal chiropractic technique for optimal baby positioning and pelvic balance during pregnancy. ICPA certified.

Abdominal Therapy

Gentle abdominal work for digestive health, fertility support, postpartum recovery, and women’s wellness.

Hypermobile Conditions Care

Specialized treatment for joint hypermobility, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and related conditions requiring gentle, specific care.

Andrea L Herrst DC P.L.C.

Andrea L Herrst DC P.L.C.