12/27/2023
Looking for a therapist to work on you while pregnant? Here are some green and red flags when it comes to finding a therapist who is knowledgeable about working on pregnant women.
✅ the therapist should have additional training outside of massage school that focuses on the needs of pregnant women
✅ proper positioning is a MUST. Side lying (safe for all) and Face down (safe for many) on appropriate equipment only. One size fits all/non adjustable pregnancy cutout pillows and belly cut out tables are not safe and could damage the uterine ligaments. When face up, you should be at an incline from 18-20 weeks on to protect the vagus nerve
✅ the therapist should be comfortable using a variety of pressure and techniques. They should know where to back off on pressure and to communicate well with you throughout stretching but are comfortable working out aches and pains with more than just light pressure
✅ the therapist is comfortable working on ankles and feet, understanding that foot massage will not send you into labor
✅ the therapist is knowledgeable of and use to working on the body as it changes due to pregnancy hormones. They regularly work on sciatic nerve pain, hip and low back, calf pain from cramping, carpal tunnel, and sore feet (among others)