The Webster Technique and Pregnancy: How Chiropractic Can Support Birth
Pregnancy brings profound physical changes — shifts in posture, ligament softening, increased pelvic loading, and altered biomechanics. As a Pregnancy Chiropractor in Melbourne, I use the Webster Technique, a specialised chiropractic approach designed to restore pelvic balance, support maternal comfort, and optimise the environment for the growing baby.
This article explores what the Webster Technique is, why it’s widely used, and what current research tells us.
What Is the Webster Technique?
Developed by Dr Larry Webster, the technique involves a specific analysis and adjustment of the sacrum and pelvis, along with soft-tissue release of surrounding muscles and ligaments.
The goal is to:
Reduce sacral misalignment and Sacroliliac (SI) joint dysfunction
Balance the pelvic muscles and ligaments
Improve neurological function
Reduce uterine tension and improve maternal comfort
(ICPA, Webster Certification, 2023)
Why Pelvic Balance Matters in Pregnancy
As the body produces relaxin, the pelvis naturally becomes more mobile. Misalignment can create tension in the:
Sacroiliac joints
Pubic Symphysis Joint
Round ligaments
Broad ligaments
Sacrotuberous Ligaments
Pelvic floor muscles
Research shows that pelvic imbalance may contribute to intrauterine constraint — restricted space that can influence fetal movement and position in the uterus.
(Bagnell 2021; ICPA Clinical Guidelines)
Balanced pelvic biomechanics help create an environment where the baby can move freely, potentially aiding in optimal fetal positioning.
What the Evidence Says
🟢 Maternal comfort and pain reduction
Numerous studies show chiropractic care can reduce low back pain, pelvic girdle pain, and discomfort during pregnancy.
Stuber et al., 2012 (Chiropractic & Manual Therapies)
Peterson et al., 2014
🟢 Webster Technique outcomes
A practitioner survey reported an 82% rate of improved musculoskeletal function relating to intrauterine constraint when using Webster technique-based care.
Pistolese, 2002 (Journal of Manipulative & Physiological Therapeutics)
🟢 Improved birth outcomes (associated factors)
Chiropractic care during pregnancy has been associated with:
Improved maternal comfort
Possible shorter labour times
Better maternal biomechanics
(Stuber et al., 2012; ICPA Clinical Guidance)
While causation cannot be claimed, pelvic balance plays an important role in labour efficiency.
What You Can Expect in a Session
As a Pregnancy Chiropractor in Elwood and across Bayside, your care includes:
A gentle pregnancy-safe pelvic assessment
Specific Webster adjustments
Full spinal adjustment
Soft-tissue release
Cranial Balancing
Pillows and supports for total comfort
A calm environment focused on supporting you and your baby
Webster care is gentle, low-force, and tailored to your body.
Should You Try the Webster Technique?
You may benefit if you are experiencing:
Pelvic pain
Hip or groin pain
Lower back discomfort
Round ligament tension
Uneven pelvic loading
Restriction in movement
Discomfort as baby grows
Or if you simply want your body functioning at its highest level as you approach birth.
Your Pregnancy Chiropractor in Melbourne, Elwood & Bayside
If you’re searching for a Pregnancy Chiropractor in Elwood, St Kilda, Brighton, Balaclava, or across Bayside, I’d love to support you.
Book your appointment and experience how pelvic balance can transform your pregnancy.
