Is Birth Trauma Reaching Epidemic Proportions?

Forceps. Vacuum extraction. C-section. Epidural. Technologically advanced tools to assist in the birth process, or… instruments and procedures that can spell disaster in terms of the newborn?

Birth has been a natural process since the beginning of time, yet artificial “advancements,” some of which the long-term effects on the newborn are unknown, have become routine birth habits. Many of these affect the newborn in subtle ways at first, but set him or her up for a lifetime of stress on the spine and nervous system if they remain undetected and unresolved.

The following situations/procedures can contribute to birth trauma in the newborn:
    Childbirth - a natural process!
    It is believed that many health problems get started due to unnoticed neurological damage that occurs before and during the birth process.
  • Excessive alcohol consumption/drug use during pregnancy – causes fetal alcohol syndrome or addicted newborn

  • Smoking, either maternal or second hand – may cause low birth weight and premature delivery

  • Use of prescription/over-the-counter drugs – most drug studies do not assess the effects on the developing fetus, some of which could have long-term effects on the newborn

  • Prenatal ultrasound testing – associated with delayed speech and dyslexia in children

  • Forceps and vacuum extraction - extremely traumatic to the fetus and may result in significant brain injury

  • Use of internal fetal monitors - raise the risk of C-section by 25%

  • Inducing labor, administration of pain medications and restricting maternal delivery position – may cause difficulty in labor and lead to complications and/or further birth interference

Spinal cord and brain stem injuries are common during the birth process, yet they often evade diagnosis and immediate initial treatment. Breathing difficulties in the newborn often indicate such injuries and neurological difficulties may begin immediately at birth as a result.

We urge expectant and new parents to speak to us about the importance of having your newborn’s spine checked so that spinal misalignments, resulting from birth trauma, can be detected and resolved. This will allow your infant’s central nervous system to develop properly and allow your infant to reach age-appropriate milestones on schedule.

Dr. Steven  Asks some important questions of interest to Moses Lake residents - Chiropractor Moses Lake Dr. Steven Asks...

Can subluxations clear up on their own?
Sometimes. Today's hectic lifestyles can be a constant source of subluxations. Fortunately, our bodies have the ability to self-correct many of these minor problems as we bend and stretch, or when we sleep at night. When subluxations don't resolve, you need to see our Moses Lake office for chiropractic care!
What's the purpose of a surgeon's mask?
When I ask most people in Moses Lake this, most think it protects the patient from the doctor's germs. But it's so porous it does little to prevent the passage of germs. We chiropractors don't bother with masks.