Arm Numbness, Leg Swelling, and Low Back Pain Helped with Chiropractic

The Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health published a case study on July 15, 2015, with the title, "Resolution of Peripheral Neuropathy, Lower Extremity Edema, and Low Back Pain in a Pregnant Female Undergoing Chiropractic Care."

In this case, a woman presented herself for chiropractic at 33 weeks of her pregnancy. She was experiencing numbness and tingling in the second through fourth fingers of her right hand. This problem was made worse by her employment, as she was a church organist. She also suffered from low back pain and swelling in her right leg.

She had a history of endometriosis and ovarian cysts, and had previously suffered two miscarriages. She was using homeopathic remedies and a change in diet to manage the pain and issues associated with her menstrual cycle and endometriosis.

A chiropractic examination revealed multiple subluxations in various areas of the woman's spine. Based on the findings, specific adjustments were begun to correct the subluxations.

By the fourth visit, the woman reported that the swelling in her leg had almost totally gone away. However, the leg swelling did return as her pregnancy progressed. By her 9th visit, the woman reported that the tingling in her hand had been resolved. Shortly after her ninth visit, the woman went into labor and delivered a 5 pound, 10 ounce boy via a water birth.

The prenatal care and birth process were assisted by a midwife in conjunction with the chiropractic care. The study authors noted in their discussion that this co-professional relationship between midwives and chiropractors is common for the care of pregnant women. "In a survey of nurse-midwives' knowledge and views about chiropractic, found their responders were aware that chiropractors worked with 'birthing professionals' and attended to patients with both musculoskeletal and nonmusculoskeletal disorders."

The authors highlighted the professional relationship midwives utilize with chiropractors by stating, "A vast majority indicated a positive personal and professional clinical experience with chiropractic and that chiropractic was safe for pregnant patients and children. There is great awareness of and positive personal and professional experience with chiropractic on the part of midwives."