What is Different about Pre-Natal Massage?

During pregnancy, we don’t recommend you lie face down once your belly is protruding past the hip bones, since it can put uncomfortable pressure on your spine and cause further alignment issues. We encourage our pregnant patients from Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Chandler, Paradise Valley, Fountain Hills, and Phoenix, AZ to lie on their sides and tend to focus on the lower back, shoulder and legs, since this is the area pregnant women often feel the most tension and discomfort from their changing bodies.

Is Massage Therapy Safe for All Pregnancies?

Massage therapy is safe and good for the average pregnant woman, helping her stay loose and flexible in preparation for birth. Certain health conditions might require medical clearance with your OBGYN or midwife, so please let us know if you have any unusual circumstances that could be cause for concern and we will be happy to see if it would fall into the high risk category.

Is Deep Tissue Massage Safe During Pregnancy?

There are certain areas of the body we avoid, including sensitive areas and pressure points that have been linked to early labor. We may also massage in a lighter or broader fashion on certain parts of your body to help your muscles relax without causing discomfort.

How Often Should I Schedule a Massage During Pregnancy?

Every patient is different and you will undergo an initial chiropractic consultation with Dr. Daniel Secrest, DC before treatments. The consultation will take into account your medical history, any problems you might be having and any discomfort you are experiencing. A comprehensive report will then be clearly outlined by Dr. Secrest, DC and you will have a detailed understanding of your health goals and treatment plan. You might come as often as weekly or monthly depending on your situation and needs.

What are the Benefits of Massage While Pregnant?

Massage therapy helps reduce stress and inflammation, while promoting relaxation. Our patients are able to physically and mentally relax, which improves their mental state and reduces depression and anxiety. Massage also relieves varicose veins and higher blood pressure often experienced during pregnancy, alleviating the musculoskeletal pain that the strain of pregnancy causes. This helps you prepare for birth by loosening your joints and muscles, leading to a shorter labor. Studies have shown that prenatal massage is helpful for both the mother and baby.

How Far Into Pregnancy Can I Receive Massages?

While your massage will change with the stage of your pregnancy and state of your body, you can receive massages up until the day you deliver (and beyond!). There is nothing dangerous or concerning about massage with the average pregnancy and regular massages by a professional skilled in pre-natal massage will help ease delivery and prepare you for healing after the birth.