Call NowPrenatal Manual Therapy FAQ
What is the main difference between a regular manual and a prenatal manual?
The biggest difference is in the positioning of the body. While a traditional manual would have you lying flat on your back or even on your stomach, prenatal manuals are done mostly on your side or in an inclined position that’s somewhere between laying and sitting. Not only is it hard for women to lay on their stomach with a large belly in the way, but these baby-safe positions reduce any unwanted pressure that may cause discomfort and nausea for the soon-to-be mother.
What is involved in a prenatal manual?
Other than the positioning of the patient, prenatal manuals are designed to avoid hard pressure on parts of the body that are essential during labor such as the legs and abdomen. Rather, the process involves more soft, gentle strokes in order to apply light to medium pressure on areas that are safe to manual. Typically, the manual therapist will begin with the upper body including the head, shoulders, and neck before moving down to the lower back and legs.
Why should I get a prenatal manual?
There are countless benefits to receiving prenatal manuals as it can:
- Help induce sleep
- Set up for an easier delivery
- Reduce the risk of premature labor
- Wash away stress
- Calm swelling
- Bat away feelings of depression
- Balance hormones
- Improve circulation
- Relieve pain in the joints, muscles, and nerves
- Alleviate headaches and heartburn
How long do prenatal manuals last?
Prenatal manuals typically last about an hour, in some cases 90 minutes. These special sessions take a little longer because of the precautions that need to be taken in order to provide ultimate safety and comfort. Extra measures are taken while setting up to ensure a safe environment and the manual itself is a delicate process to give you maximum comfort.
What should I do before my appointment?
First and foremost, keep in mind any information that your manual therapist gives you during the time of scheduling your appointment. Aside from any cautions or disclaimers you may be given, there’s not much else to do other than to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and walk into your special day with good vibes for a relaxing time!
When should I begin getting prenatal manuals?
For ensured safety, it is recommended to wait until after your first trimester to schedule an appointment. Although there’s no confirmed study, there have been many correlations between prenatal manuals during the first trimester and miscarriages. This is likely because in some rare cases, manuals can trigger a detoxification in the body. Those toxins have a chance of returning to the bloodstream thus affecting the child. However, prenatal manuals after passing the first trimester is a healthy and highly-recommended procedure for both you and your child with the proper precautions. To see if you’re qualified to start scheduling an appointment, speak with a licensed therapist.
Where can I find a licensed prenatal manual therapist?
At Impact Medical Bradenton, we are especially qualified and certified to give you the best prenatal manual experience in the area. Call us at 941-269-2183 to speak with a specialist and schedule your appointment today!