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July 7, 2017 In Ask Austin Expecting, Prenatal By Katherine Melot DC

Are All Chiropractors Qualified to Work With Pregnant Women?

Ask Austin Expecting

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This is a gray area in chiropractic. The Webster Technique is the chiropractic technique used to work with patients during pregnancy. All chiropractors are taught the Webster Technique in school, but not every chiropractor is certified in the Webster Technique. The basic Webster training, which all chiropractors receive, includes only the most basic version of Webster. For those chiropractors who pursue continued education and certification in the Webster Technique, this training is very much expanded upon including training in other techniques to be used in conjunction with Webster. In chiropractic college, there are only one or two classes in the four-year program focused specifically on pediatric and prenatal care. For expecting mothers, I always recommend choosing a Webster-certified doctor if there is one available, because they will be much more extensively educated in this area.

 

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Above and beyond Webster training, I will also recommend ICPA-certified chiropractors. Chiropractors may attain further certification through the ICPA (International Chiropractic Pediatric Association), the main pediatric educational association for chiropractors. ICPA certification requires Webster certification plus 180 hours of additional pediatric and prenatal training, participation in research (so those certified have worked with numerous pregnant patients and kids), and a passing score on a final exam. I have personally completed all of the required courses with the exception of one final course and am currently focused on the research portion. To reach this stage has required about three years and has provided a significant level of education beyond the standard required chiropractic college training.

 

That said, if there is not a provider in your area who is certified by the ICPA or in the Webster Technique, it’s always better to go with chiropractic care than to go without. I would encourage expecting patients to ask for recommendations from others, because just like any other provider, not all chiropractors are created equal. Many claim to work with pregnant women when they have no additional training, so it’s also wise to research the level of education and experience your chiropractor has, and which certifications they have earned.

Dr. Katherine Melot is a Board Certified Doctor of Chiropractic and is passionate about helping women and their families achieve optimum mind & body health. She has extensive training in prenatal and pediatric care, including Webster Technique certification, and is a professional member of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association. Dr. Melot believes in the self-healing, self-regulating capacity of each individual and supports you in expressing 100% of your optimum potential. With her education in both Chiropractic and Positive Psychology Coaching Dr. Melot is uniquely equipped to help the families in her community achieve happier mindsets and healthier lifestyles. For more information, visit:

katherine-melot-vibrant-life-chiropractic-headshot-267x400Katherine Melot, D.C.

Vibrant Life Chiropractic & Coaching

www.vibrantlifecc.com

9300-A W US 290

Austin, TX 78736
512-222-4222
katherine@vibrantlifecc.com
Facebook: @vibrantlifecc
Instagram: @vibrantlifecc

Austin Expecting is Austin’s most exhaustive prenatal, birth and postpartum resource directory. Find all your pregnancy care and service providers in our comprehensive directory. Stay up to date with all the goings on for expectant moms with our events calendar. Connect with Austin moms and providers by following our blog. The advice and opinions on this website are for informational purposes only. Do not use this information against the advice of your medical practitioner. Always consult your doctor or practitioner for any health-related issues you may be experiencing. 

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