What Is the Webster Technique?
Benefits for Pregnancy and Chiropractic Care
What Is the Webster Technique?
The Webster Technique offers a gentle, non-invasive chiropractic approach designed to restore balance in the pelvis during pregnancy. By easing tension in specific muscles and ligaments, it helps create more space and mobility within the pelvis, which can support a more comfortable pregnancy for both mother and baby. This method may also reduce strain on the uterus, helping minimize the risk of it becoming twisted or restricted—factors that can affect the baby’s positioning and movement. Many expectant mothers find that this technique brings relief from lower back discomfort and sciatic pain, two common issues that arise as the body adapts to pregnancy.
Brief history and origin
In the 1980s, Dr. Larry Webster developed a chiropractic method inspired by his daughter Lucinda’s difficult labor. Watching her struggle through childbirth, he believed there had to be a better way to support women during pregnancy—especially by addressing pelvic alignment.
He recognized that imbalances in the pelvis could create tension in the uterus, limiting the baby’s ability to move freely. This condition, known as intrauterine constraint, can lead to discomfort for the mother and prevent the baby from settling into an ideal position for birth.
To help with this, Dr. Webster introduced a gentle, targeted technique designed to improve the function of the sacrum and sacroiliac (SI) joints. By promoting balance in the pelvis, the Webster Technique may ease pregnancy-related discomfort and encourage optimal fetal positioning—sometimes even helping breech babies turn naturally.
Back in 2000, a certification program was introduced to support this technique. Around the same time, Dr. Webster established the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA). Today, the ICPA includes a community of over 6,000 chiropractors who focus on caring for families and promoting overall wellness.
How it differs from general chiropractic care
The Webster Technique is a gentle chiropractic method that supports pelvic balance and comfort.
By focusing on the alignment of your pelvis and nearby muscles and ligaments, it helps ease tension and encourages smoother movement—especially helpful during pregnancy, when your body is constantly changing.
Through precise adjustments and targeted soft-tissue work, this approach creates space for your body to function more naturally, allowing you to feel more at ease from the inside out.
How Does the Webster Technique Work?
At your visit, your chiropractor will provide a specially designed pregnancy pillow, allowing you to lie face down comfortably. This pillow has a center opening that supports your body while giving your belly—and baby—plenty of space. Some clinics even use tables with adjustable sections that drop away for added comfort and room.
You'll be asked to lie down while your chiropractor performs an initial assessment. Using the Webster technique, they’ll start by checking your feet, bending them gently toward your hips to see if they align evenly. Any imbalance could suggest your pelvis is slightly misaligned.
Adjustments are made on the side—or sides—where the imbalance is found. Your chiropractor may use a drop table or a handheld adjusting tool to realign your pelvis gently and precisely. Always speak up if anything feels off or uncomfortable—your feedback helps guide the care you receive.
You might also be asked to lie on your back so your provider can assess the front of your body. This part usually involves gentle soft tissue work, focusing on the abdominal muscles and the ligaments surrounding the uterus.
If you’re seeking care for a breech baby, your chiropractor won’t try to turn the baby manually. Instead, the goal is to improve pelvic alignment and mobility, creating more room for your baby to shift naturally into the right position.
After your session, make sure to drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated supports circulation, healing, and your body’s natural detox pathways.
Benefits of the Webster Technique During Pregnancy
Many women turn to the Webster Technique during pregnancy to ease discomfort and support their body’s natural alignment. It’s often used to relieve lower back pain, reduce pelvic pressure, and help create an optimal pelvic environment, which may encourage the baby to settle into a favorable position for birth. Altogether, these benefits can contribute to a more comfortable and potentially smoother delivery.
While it's especially popular among expectant mothers, the Webster Technique isn’t just for pregnancy. It may also help anyone dealing with issues related to the sacrum—the triangular bone at the base of the spine—by addressing imbalances that can cause pain or restricted movement.
Are There any Cons to the Webster Technique?
The Webster technique is generally considered a safe option.
That said, one thing to keep in mind is that not all health insurance plans include chiropractic care. It's a good idea to contact your provider ahead of time to understand what's covered and what costs you may be responsible for.
Chiropractic adjustments aren’t right for everyone. If you’re dealing with certain medical conditions, it’s important to talk with your doctor before scheduling a session. These conditions include:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Placenta previa or placental abruption
- Moderate to severe preeclampsia
Always check with your healthcare provider to make sure chiropractic care is a safe choice for your unique situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Should You Begin the Webster Technique?
The best time to begin the Webster Technique is before conception, but starting during pregnancy can still provide meaningful benefits. Early care gives your body time to adjust and helps your pelvis align for a more comfortable pregnancy.
How Soon Will You Feel Results?
Some patients notice relief right away, while for others, progress takes a bit more time. Your chiropractor will create a personalized care plan based on your body’s unique needs and how it responds to treatment.
Is the Webster Technique Effective?
Many expectant mothers experience better pelvic balance, less discomfort, and improved mobility. While outcomes vary, approaching care with realistic expectations is key.
What Are the Potential Benefits?
Patients often report less back and pelvic pain, a more comfortable pregnancy, and smoother labor. The technique also supports your body’s natural ability to function and adapt during this important time.
What Does Webster Certification Mean?
A chiropractor with Webster Technique certification has received specialized training to safely and effectively support pregnant patients. It’s a mark of both expertise and commitment to providing thoughtful, tailored care.
Disclaimer:
Dr. Berner does not diagnose, treat, or prevent any medical diseases or conditions; instead, he analyzes and corrects the structure of his patients with Foundational Corrections to improve their overall quality of life. He works with their physicians, who regulate their medications. This blog post is not designed to provide medical advice, professional diagnosis, opinion, treatment, or services to you or any other individual. The information provided in this post or through linkages to other sites is not a substitute for medical or professional care. You should not use the information in place of a visit, consultation, or the advice of your physician or another healthcare provider. Foundation Chiropractic and Dr. Brett Berner are not liable or responsible for any advice, the course of treatment, diagnosis, or any other information, services, or products you obtain through this article or others.
