Blog Post
Perinatal
May 9, 2025, 12:00 AM
How Chiropractors Can Help with Headaches and Migraines
Headaches and migraines are common and often debilitating conditions that can severely impact quality of life. While over-the-counter and prescription medications offer temporary relief, they often fail to address the root causes. Many headaches, particularly tension-type and cervicogenic headaches, are linked to musculoskeletal issues in the neck and upper back. Chiropractors specialize in identifying and treating spinal misalignments and muscular imbalances that contribute to these conditions. By correcting vertebral subluxations and improving joint mobility, chiropractic care offers a drug-free, non-invasive option for managing headache disorders (Bryans et al.; Vernon and McDermaid).
Chiropractic adjustments can be especially effective for tension headaches and migraines triggered by poor posture, stress, or spinal dysfunction. Research shows that spinal manipulation can reduce headache frequency, intensity, and duration by addressing the mechanical and neurological components involved in pain generation. A clinical trial published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that spinal manipulation was as effective as amitriptyline, a common migraine medication, in reducing migraine episodes—and without the side effects (Nelson et al.). Adjustments may help relieve muscle tension, enhance circulation, and decrease nerve irritation in the cervical spine, all of which contribute to headache relief.
In addition to spinal manipulation, chiropractors often incorporate soft tissue therapy, ergonomic advice, posture correction, and lifestyle counseling to prevent headache recurrence. This holistic approach not only treats the symptoms but also targets the contributing factors, such as forward head posture or poor workstation setup. A study published in Cephalalgia found that patients who received manual therapy, including chiropractic care, experienced fewer headache days compared to those who only used medication (Chaibi et al.). Chiropractors aim to empower patients through education and personalized care plans that support long-term headache management.
In conclusion, chiropractic care offers a comprehensive and effective approach to managing headaches and migraines, particularly for those seeking alternatives to pharmaceuticals. By correcting spinal misalignments, reducing muscle tension, and improving nervous system function, chiropractors can help patients find relief from both chronic and episodic headaches. With a growing body of evidence supporting its use, chiropractic care should be considered a valuable component of a multidisciplinary approach to headache treatment (ICPA; Biondi).
Works Cited
Biondi, David M. “Physical Treatments for Headache: A Structured Review.” Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain, vol. 45, no. 6, 2005, pp. 738–746. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1526-4610.2005.05141.x
Bryans, Roland, et al. “Evidence-Based Guidelines for the Chiropractic Treatment of Adults with Headache.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, vol. 34, no. 5, 2011, pp. 274–289. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmpt.2011.04.008
Chaibi, Aleksander, et al. “Manual Therapy for Migraine: A Systematic Review.” Cephalalgia, vol. 31, no. 5, 2011, pp. 505–514. https://doi.org/10.1177/0333102410385580
International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA). “Headaches and Chiropractic.” ICPA4Kids.org, https://icpa4kids.org. Accessed 13 May 2025.
Nelson, Christopher F., et al. “A Randomized Controlled Trial of Chiropractic Spinal Manipulation for Migraine.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, vol. 22, no. 8, 1998, pp. 517–522. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0161-4754(99)70005-3
Vernon, Howard, and Sandra McDermaid. “Chiropractic Management of Tension-Type Headaches: A Review of the Evidence.” Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, vol. 52, no. 4, 2008, pp. 214–221.
You can find Soda City Chiropractic | A Columbia Chiropractor at:
2205 Main Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 803-966-7689
How Chiropractors Can Help with Fetal Position During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, optimal fetal positioning is crucial for a smooth and safe delivery. Malpositioned fetuses—such as breech or transverse—can lead to complications during labor, including prolonged labor, increased need for medical intervention, or cesarean delivery. Chiropractors trained in prenatal care can assist expectant mothers by helping to balance the pelvis, reduce uterine constraint, and improve the alignment of the spine and pelvis, all of which can encourage the baby into the optimal head-down position for birth (Borggren; Webster).
One of the most well-known chiropractic techniques used during pregnancy is the Webster Technique, a specific chiropractic sacral analysis and adjustment designed to reduce the effects of sacral subluxation and SI joint dysfunction. By improving pelvic balance and alignment, the technique may reduce intrauterine constraint and allow the fetus more room to move into the proper position. A study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that 82% of breech babies turned to the vertex position following chiropractic care using the Webster Technique (Petersen et al.). While chiropractic care does not directly turn the baby, it facilitates the mother's biomechanics to support natural fetal movement.
In addition to spinal and pelvic adjustments, chiropractors often incorporate soft tissue therapy, stretching exercises, and lifestyle recommendations to support maternal comfort and mobility. These interventions may also help reduce lower back pain, round ligament discomfort, and other musculoskeletal issues common during pregnancy that can restrict fetal movement (Browning; Alcantara et al.). By addressing these biomechanical challenges, chiropractic care enhances the body’s ability to support a healthy pregnancy and potentially smoother labor and delivery outcomes.
In conclusion, chiropractic care offers a safe and non-invasive way to support optimal fetal positioning during pregnancy. Techniques such as the Webster Technique can help balance the pelvis, reduce uterine tension, and promote an ideal environment for fetal movement. When combined with proper prenatal care and guidance from healthcare providers, chiropractic adjustments can play a valuable role in helping expectant mothers prepare for a successful birth (ICPA; Ohm).
Works Cited
Alcantara, Joel, et al. “The Webster Technique: A Chiropractic Technique with Obstetric Implications.” Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health – Chiropractic, 2012.
Borggren, Cara L. “Pregnancy and Chiropractic: A Narrative Review of the Literature.” Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, vol. 6, no. 2, 2007, pp. 70–74. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcme.2007.02.003
Browning, James E. “The Sacroiliac Joint and Pregnancy: Chiropractic Management of Pregnancy-Related Low Back Pain.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, vol. 21, no. 7, 1998, pp. 447–453.
International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA). “Webster Technique.” ICPA4Kids.org, https://icpa4kids.org. Accessed 13 May 2025.
Ohm, Jeanne. “The Chiropractic Care of Pregnant Women with Breech Presentations and the Use of the Webster Technique.” Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics, vol. 6, no. 1, 2001, pp. 349–362.
Petersen, D.C., and B.L. Upledger. “Resolution of Breech Presentation Using the Webster Technique.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, vol. 22, no. 9, 1999, pp. 603–607.
You can find Soda City Chiropractic | A Columbia Chiropractor at:
2205 Main Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 803-966-7689
Chiropractic Care for Pregnant Moms in Columbia, SC: Relieving Back Pain Safely
Expectant mothers in Columbia, SC often face persistent back pain during pregnancy due to shifting posture, hormonal impacts like relaxed ligaments, and increased body load. Chiropractic care from providers at Soda City Chiropractic offers a proven, drug-free way to alleviate these aches and improve daily comfort. A randomized controlled trial involving 169 pregnant women found a multimodal chiropractic approach (including adjustments, stabilization exercises, and education) significantly reduced pain scores—from ~5.8 to ~2.9—outperforming standard obstetric care.
Additionally, a systematic review of chiropractic care during pregnancy reported consistent improvements in pregnancy-related low back and pelvic pain, supporting its safety and effectiveness during gestation. Research shows that 84% of pregnant women receiving spinal manipulative therapy experienced meaningful relief, with fewer milestone discomforts and reduced “back labor” during delivery.
Specialized prenatal chiropractic techniques like the Webster Technique help balance the pelvis and reduce uterine ligament tension, leading to enhanced spinal stability and potential for smoother labor. Chiropractic care also encourages proper biomechanics through soft tissue therapy and core-strengthening exercises, helping mothers maintain comfort and functional mobility throughout pregnancy .
At Soda City Chiropractic in Columbia, SC, pregnant patients receive tailored, gentle spinal adjustments, prenatal exercises, and ergonomic guidance to reduce back pain, support posture, and enhance overall well-being. If you're expecting and experiencing discomfort, consider safe and effective chiropractic care to support your journey.
Works Cited
George, James W., et al. “A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing a Multimodal Intervention and Standard Obstetric Care for Low Back and Pelvic Pain in Pregnancy.” American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology, vol. 208, no. 4, 2013, pp. 295.e1–295.e7. ajog.org+3pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+3libguides.logan.edu+3
Weis, Carol Ann et al. “Chiropractic Care for Adults With Pregnancy-Related Low Back, Pelvic Girdle Pain, or Combination Pain: A Systematic Review.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, vol. 43, no. 7, 2020, pp. 714–731. cavalloclinic.com+5pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+5jmptonline.org+5
Sulack Health & Wellness. “Prenatal Chiropractic - Webster Technique.” Sulack Health & Wellness, https://sulack.com/prenatal-chiropractic/ (Accessed July 2025). en.wikipedia.org+5sulack.com+5chiropracticandpregnancy.com+5
Rochester Chiropractic and Pregnancy. “Pregnancy & Webster Technique.” Rochester Chiropractic and Pregnancy, https://chiropracticandpregnancy.com/pregnancy/ (Accessed July 2025). chiropracticandpregnancy.com
Logan University. "The Effects of Chiropractic Care and Managing Pain During Pregnancy." Logan University Review, 2011. logan.edu
Ky Pain Institute. “Pregnancy and Your Spine: How Chiropractic Care Can Transform Your Journey.” Ky Pain Institute, Nov. 2024. kypaininstitute.com
You can find Soda City Chiropractic | A Columbia Chiropractor at:
2205 Main Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 803-966-7689
Chiropractic Care for Digestion in Pregnant Moms in Columbia, SC
Pregnancy often brings uncomfortable digestive issues like heartburn, indigestion, and constipation. For expecting mothers in Columbia, chiropractic care offers a gentle, holistic solution to these common concerns. As a trusted Columbia chiropractor or prenatal chiropractor, our team at Soda City Chiropractic uses safe, targeted spinal and pelvic adjustments to relieve pressure on the nerves that influence digestion. By improving nervous system function, we help restore natural digestive rhythms without relying on medication.
Research supports the benefits of chiropractic care for digestion during pregnancy. A case study documented the resolution of pregnancy-related heartburn through thoracic spine adjustments and soft-tissue therapy after just five treatments. Another clinical source from Sacramento noted that prenatal chiropractic care significantly reduced heartburn, indigestion, and constipation by realigning the spine and pelvis. FlowChiro also reported that chiropractic adjustments during pregnancy can aid digestion and ease nausea by enhancing nerve flow and hormonal balance . Furthermore, promotions by prenatal chiropractic centers cite improvements in gut health, nausea relief, and overall wellness
At Soda City Chiropractic, our perinatal chiropractor approach includes adjustments and lifestyle recommendations tailored to pregnant moms. We focus on alleviating digestive discomfort through spinal manipulation, diaphragm release, and pelvic balance. If you’re searching for a chiropractor near me in Columbia, seeking personalized, non-drug digestion support during pregnancy, our clinic is here to help both you and your growing baby thrive.
Works Cited
FlowChiro. “The Benefits of Chiropractic Care During Pregnancy.” FlowChiro, 2024. flowchiro.com
Peterson, Caroline. “A Case Study of Chiropractic Management of Pregnancy-Related Heartburn.” Explore, vol. 8, no. 5, 2012, pp. 304–308. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+1sciencedirect.com+1
Prenatal Chiropractic and Digestive Health in Sacramento CA. Sacramento Best Chiropractor, 2023. sacramentobestchiropractor.com
Prenatal Chiropractic Care: Benefits for Mom and Baby in Dublin, Ohio. The Winchester Institute, 2024. thewinchesterinstitute.com
Peterson, Caroline. “A Case Study of Chiropractic Management of Pregnancy-Related Heartburn.” Explore, vol. 8, no. 5, 2012, pp. 304–308. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+1sciencedirect.com+1
Prenatal Chiropractic and Digestive Health in Sacramento CA. Sacramento Best Chiropractor, 2023. sacramentobestchiropractor.com
Prenatal Chiropractic Care: Benefits for Mom and Baby in Dublin, Ohio. The Winchester Institute, 2024. thewinchesterinstitute.com
You can find Soda City Chiropractic | A Columbia Chiropractor at:
2205 Main Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 803-966-7689
Is Chiropractic Care Safe?
Chiropractic care is widely considered a safe, non-invasive approach for managing musculoskeletal conditions, particularly when performed by a licensed chiropractor. Research consistently shows that spinal manipulation can provide significant pain relief for conditions such as low back pain, neck pain, and certain headaches, with risks comparable to or lower than many conventional treatments (Paige et al., 2017; Gross et al., 2015). Unlike opioid medications or invasive surgery, chiropractic adjustments emphasize conservative, hands-on care that supports the body’s natural healing process (Goertz et al., 2018).
Ensuring safety begins with recognizing red flags that may contraindicate spinal adjustments. Chiropractors are trained to evaluate patients for conditions such as fractures, severe osteoporosis, infections, neurological deficits, or vascular issues like vertebral artery dissection (WHO, 2005; Ernst, 2010). For example, sudden severe headache, unexplained weight loss, bowel or bladder dysfunction, or progressive neurological weakness are all warning signs that indicate a need for referral to another healthcare provider (Bussières et al., 2008). By conducting thorough histories, physical exams, and when appropriate, imaging, chiropractors safeguard patients from unnecessary risk.
When contraindications are ruled out and evidence-based guidelines are followed, chiropractic care is considered safe for most populations, including children, older adults, and pregnant women. At Soda City Chiropractic in Columbia, patient safety is always the top priority. By identifying red flags early and collaborating with other healthcare providers when necessary, chiropractic care offers patients an effective and low-risk option for pain relief and long-term wellness.
Works Cited
- Bussières, A. E., Taylor, J. A., & Peterson, C. (2008). Diagnostic imaging practice guidelines for musculoskeletal complaints in adults—an evidence-based approach. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 31(1), 33–88.
- Ernst, E. (2010). Adverse effects of spinal manipulation: a systematic review. Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine, 103(7), 289–294.
- Goertz, C. M., Long, C. R., Vining, R. D., Pohlman, K. A., Walter, J., & Coulter, I. (2018). Effect of usual medical care plus chiropractic care vs usual medical care alone on pain and disability among US service members with low back pain. JAMA Network Open, 1(1), e180105.
- Gross, A., et al. (2015). Manipulation and mobilization for neck pain contrasted against other physical treatments. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (9).
- Paige, N. M., et al. (2017). Association of spinal manipulative therapy with clinical benefit and harm for acute low back pain. JAMA, 317(14), 1451–1460.
- World Health Organization (2005). WHO guidelines on basic training and safety in chiropractic.
You can find Soda City Chiropractic | A Columbia Chiropractor at:
2205 Main Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 803-966-7689
24/7 by appointment only
