What Is the Webster Technique?

The Webster technique is a specific chiropractic analysis and adjustment designed for pregnant people. Developed by Dr. Larry Webster, founder of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA), it focuses on reducing sacral subluxation and improving neuro-biomechanical function in the pelvis.

In simpler terms: the Webster technique helps your pelvis stay balanced and mobile so your uterus has the best possible environment for baby to move into an optimal position for birth.

How It Works

During pregnancy, the hormone relaxin loosens ligaments throughout the body, especially in the pelvis. While this is necessary for birth, it can also lead to misalignment, uneven tension in the round ligaments, and compensatory patterns that affect pelvic symmetry.

A Webster-certified chiropractor will:

1. Assess your sacrum (the triangular bone at the base of your spine) for misalignment

2. Perform a gentle, low-force adjustment to restore sacral alignment

3. Address tension in the surrounding soft tissues, particularly the round ligaments that connect the uterus to the pelvis

4. Evaluate overall spinal and pelvic balance

The adjustment is gentle. You lie on a specially designed pregnancy pillow or table with a drop-away section for your belly, so there is no pressure on your abdomen.

The Breech Connection

The Webster technique is best known for its association with breech babies turning head-down, but it is important to understand the mechanism. The technique does not "turn" the baby. What it does is restore pelvic balance, reduce intrauterine constraint, and create the space baby needs to move on their own.

The ICPA reports an 82% success rate in resolving breech presentation when the Webster technique is used, though this figure comes from case series rather than randomized trials. Many midwives and OBs now recommend families try Webster before resorting to an external cephalic version (ECV), which involves manually turning the baby from outside the abdomen.

Even if your baby is already head-down, the Webster technique can support optimal positioning by encouraging the baby to settle into an anterior position (facing your back), which is associated with shorter, more straightforward labors.

Beyond Breech: Benefits Throughout Pregnancy

Pelvic alignment matters for more than fetal positioning. Regular chiropractic care during pregnancy may help with:

  • Lower back and sacroiliac pain. As your center of gravity shifts forward, spinal alignment becomes critical for comfort.
  • Round ligament pain. Balanced pelvic structures reduce the sharp, pulling sensations many pregnant people experience.
  • Pubic symphysis dysfunction (SPD). Chiropractic care can address the misalignment that contributes to this painful condition.
  • Optimal labor mechanics. A well-aligned pelvis allows baby to descend more efficiently during labor, potentially reducing labor duration and the need for interventions.

Many practitioners who use the Webster technique also incorporate Spinning Babies principles, which focus on maternal positioning and movement to encourage fetal rotation and descent.

When to Start and How Often

Most prenatal chiropractors recommend beginning care in the second trimester if you are seeking general wellness, or as soon as a breech or posterior presentation is identified if that is your primary concern.

A typical schedule might look like:

  • Second trimester: Every 2 to 4 weeks
  • Third trimester: Weekly or biweekly
  • Breech presentation at 34+ weeks: 2 to 3 times per week until baby turns

Your chiropractor will tailor the frequency to your body's response and your specific needs.

How to Find a Webster-Certified Chiropractor

Not all chiropractors are trained in the Webster technique. Look for a provider who holds ICPA certification or has completed advanced training in prenatal chiropractic care. When interviewing a provider, ask:

  • Are you Webster-certified through the ICPA?
  • How many pregnant clients do you see each week?
  • Do you have a pregnancy-specific table or pillow system?
  • Do you coordinate with midwives or OBs?

BAABY's provider directory includes chiropractors who specialize in prenatal care, making it easy to find a Webster-certified practitioner near you.

A Natural Part of Your Pregnancy Wellness

Chiropractic care during pregnancy is not a fringe practice. It is a gentle, evidence-informed modality that supports your body as it undergoes one of the most dramatic physical transformations of your life. Whether you are dealing with a breech baby, nagging lower back pain, or simply want your pelvis in the best possible shape for birth, the Webster technique is worth exploring.