Resolution of Breech Presentation Confirmed by Ultrasound Following Chiropractic

The Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health published a case on June 8, 2017, showing the correction of a breech presentation pregnancy after the application of the chiropractic procedure known as the Webster Technique.

The head down position, known as the vertex position, is the correct position for delivery as it provides the safest passage through the birth canal. A breech presentation is when either the feet or the buttocks are downward. According to this study, about 3.2% off all pregnancies are in a breech presentation during the last stages of pregnancy.

Initially, about 25% to 30% of pregnancies are in breech prior to 28 weeks of gestation. Most, however, will turn by the 34th week. It is those that fail to turn that are of concern and can lead to problems with delivery. Since the advent of cesarean birth, most breech presentations are not allowed to deliver, and the surgical alternative is used.

There are certain health factors which seem to be associated with an increased possibility of breech presentation. These include the mother's age, maternal diabetes, smoking, congenital malformations and placental implantation issues.

In this case, a 26-year-old woman in her 27th week of pregnancy with her second child was having bilateral sacroiliac pain. At 28 weeks, it was determined by ultrasound that her baby was in a breech presentation. Her first pregnancy resulted in a natural birth with no complications.

A chiropractic examination revealed muscles spasm in the lower back as well as restricted ranges of motion of the lumbar vertebrae and pelvis. Based upon the examination, it was determined that subluxations in her spine and at the base bone, the sacrum, were present and that the Webster technique could be helpful.

Dr. Larry Webster, a chiropractor and founder of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association, discovered this adjustment as a safe means to restore proper pelvic balance and function. On the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association website, this procedure is described. "The Webster technique is a specific chiropractic analysis and diversified adjustment. The goal of the adjustment is to reduce the effects of sacral subluxation/ SI joint dysfunction. In so doing neuro-biomechanical function in the pelvis is improved."

A second ultrasound was done at 39 weeks after a series of chiropractic adjustments and the Webster technique had been applied. The second ultrasound showed that the baby had turned into a normal vertex position. One day after the ultrasound, the woman had a normal natural vaginal delivery with no complications.

In their conclusion the study authors wrote, "Traditional medical procedures when pertaining to a breech birth are effective, yet can come with serious risks that must be considered. The results of this study contributes to evidence based practice that women with breech pregnancies may benefit from the Webster Technique along with the side posture adjustment in relieving sacral subluxation and its relationship to a healthy pregnancy."