Pregnancy massage with a difference! Pregnancy is a time a woman's life when emotions run at perhaps their greatest. There's just so much to learn, new experiences especially if you’re a first time mum and so much to worry about that you can very easily forget to actually enjoy this very special time of nine months, take some time out for you.

The benefits of massage and treatment during each stage of pregnancy provide great amounts of relief for developing pregnancy related problems as well as maternal health benefits. The clinic I run has specialised massage equipment allowing the mother-to-be to comfortably lie on her tummy, by having a bench with an opening in the middle section. This allows me to effectively massage sore neck, shoulders and back, so you will finally get to enjoy the familiarity of lying face down. 

As a Chiropractor I have treated many soon to be mums who have chronic lower back problems, aches and swellings in the legs and arms and also headaches and neck pain. I am a fully qualified Chiropractor, graduating in 2006 from the Welsh Institute of Chiropractic, University of Glamorgan. As well as treating existing problems, I also provide massage therapy, consisting solely of pre natal massage techniques, having a massage it is a brilliant way to relax, increase your energy and alleviate discomfort.

I have a great interest in pre natal care of the body and aim to help prevent any musculoskeletal problems that may occur during the term of your pregnancy through massage and treat any existing ones. Being a chiropractor it gives me a great foundation of knowledge and experience at treating expectant mothers. The specialised Earthlite pregnancy bench has a Pro-Plush™ Deluxe cushioning system and Natursoft™ upholstery making it supremely comfortable to lie on. The opening in bench accommodates the all stages of pregnancy for ultimate patient comfort.

The Benefits of Massage
Incorporating into pre natal care massage during all three trimesters can help improve maternal health physically but also adds an emotional supplement. Massage has many benefits being pregnant places the body is under much strain and stress as your body changes shape, size and is greatly influenced by hormones.

Massage Benefits

• Relive pain and aches in the joints and soft tissues, and reduce stress on weight bearing joints
• Reduce emotional stress
• Relive muscle tension and knots and then increase flexibility
• Improve heath
• Improve circulation and lymphatic flow

Complicated Pregnancies
Pregnancies that have complications will be fully investigated during the initial consultation; any complications must be informed during this time, so precautions can be taken if possible. If for any reason you may be not be suitable for this type of massage, I will explain the reasons why, safety is of upmost importance for your pregnancy and yourself.

Complications:

• High risk pregnancy
• Pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH)
• Preeclampsia
• Previous pre-term labour
• Experiencing severe swelling, high blood pressure, or sudden, severe headaches
• Recent birth
• Diabetes
• Gestational diabetes
• History of kidney disease
• Bleeding
• Multiple pregnancy (twins or triplets, etc)

The bench does not allow the abdomen to dangle through the hole as the abdomen is supported by a flexible mesh sling in the opening which braces your tummy, this means there is very little pressure on the lower back, pelvic joints, muscles and ligaments and the uterine ligaments that naturally support the abdomen as the baby grows. It is safe to lay in this way for 30-40 minutes while you’re having your treatment. The massage or even part of the massage if preferred can also be performed on your side with your bump supported by cushions and pillows, the bench has a plug in which the opening can be covered and allowing you to lay on your side. All treatments are performed within your comfort zone, always voice any concerns or if you’re not comfortable, this is your time to get comfortable and unwind!

It’s not recommended that when pregnant you lay on you back, especially in the later stage of pregnancy, the weight of the uterus can put pressure on the abdominal arties and veins. This can have effects on the blood pressure and also blood flow to the rest of your body.

A small bit about me!
I have always had a great interest in human anatomy and physiology from school; this shaped my A- level choices and while studying and playing a lot of sport, particularly hockey, my interest in treating common everyday ailments and particularly sports injuries was founded. After shadowing a local chiropractor in my home town of Nottingham, I was immensely impressed with the results of chiropractic and the wide variety of people and conditions that could be treated, naturally, through logic and quick intervention.

After gaining a place at University of Glamorgan, Welsh Institute of Chiropractic, I studied for 4 years, completing a dissertation in shoulder muscle pain and a final year in the university clinic. Chiropractors are traditionally known for spinal manipulation; however I have a special interest in muscular treatments and massage, along with using the tool of manipulation if the condition deems necessary. After graduating I have concentrated on gaining further knowledge in treating and assisting the pregnant patient, I feel that this type of massage treatment helps females, when a lot of pain reliving choices such as anti-inflammatory medications that are not an option. I also believe in treating the cause of the problem and will help combat the hurdles and actions that may be causing your pains.

Qualifications
Chiropractic is a primary health care profession, it specialises in the diagnosis, treatment,  prevention and overall management  of  conditions that are caused by problems occurring in the joints, ligaments, tendons and nerves if the body. The training consists of individuals who have gone through a minimum four-year full-time internationally-accredited course; this course takes us through the aspects and changing bodies of pre natal patients.

Chiropractic is unique amongst health care professions in that there are internationally set standards of education, meaning that qualification from an internationally accredited education establishment truly furnishes you with a portable qualification to take across the world.

In common with medical practitioners and dentists, all chiropractors are registered by law under the Chiropractors Act 1994 and the title ‘Chiropractor’ is protected under this legislation.

I hold a 2:1 degree in Chiropractic.

The First Visit
The first consultation treatment will last and hour, during this time we will sit and go through history of your pregnancy and also previous medical history.

To receive the massage you may be asked to undress down to their underwear and be asked to wear a clinic gown and robe, which allows all body parts being worked to be discreetly covered, but all patients can bring shorts and a loose fitting t shirt if they wish.

Contact the clinic on 0117 962 0008 or 07970 831361 for queries you have regarding pregnancy massage, or email at cbarber@bristol-wells-chiropractor.co.uk

Online booking system on the website www.pregnancymassagebristol.co.uk

Treatment Fees

If you want a different combination, then don’t hesitate to ask when booking!