DAVID LETARTE, DC
Prenatal and Pregnancy Chiropractic Care
Pregnancy places significant and progressive demands on the musculoskeletal system as the body adapts to the growing weight of the baby, shifting center of gravity, and hormonal changes that loosen ligaments throughout the body. Low back pain, pelvic pain, and sciatic symptoms are among the most common complaints during pregnancy, affecting more than half of all pregnant women. Chiropractors in TUCSON, Arizona who work with prenatal patients use modified techniques — including specialized positioning and gentler adjustments — to provide safe and effective care throughout all trimesters.
Chiropractic care during pregnancy focuses on maintaining pelvic alignment, reducing nerve irritation, and supporting the postural adaptations the body is making in real time. The Webster Technique, a specific chiropractic protocol, is widely used to optimize pelvic alignment and uterine function during pregnancy. Regular chiropractic care during pregnancy has been associated with reduced labor times and improved comfort during delivery in multiple studies.
- Sacroiliac and pelvic pain — relaxin and progesterone loosen pelvic ligaments during pregnancy, increasing joint mobility and potential for dysfunction.
- Round ligament pain — sharp or aching pain on the sides of the lower abdomen common in the second trimester; pelvic alignment care can reduce severity.
- Lumbar and sciatic pain — the expanding uterus shifts posture and can increase pressure on lumbar discs and the sciatic nerve.
- Postpartum recovery — chiropractic care after delivery supports recovery from the physical demands of labor and the postural changes of nursing and infant care.
Visiting a Chiropractor
What to Bring to Your First Appointment
- Photo ID and insurance card (or a payment method if paying out of pocket)
- A list of current medications and supplements, including dosages
- Any relevant imaging you already have — X-rays, MRI reports, or CT scans
- A description of your symptoms: where the pain is, when it started, and what makes it better or worse
- A list of previous injuries or surgeries that may be related to your current complaint
Questions to Ask at Your First Visit
- Are you in-network with my insurance? Coverage varies widely between plans — confirm before your visit to avoid surprise bills.
- What is your approach to my specific condition? Chiropractors have different treatment philosophies and technique preferences.
- How many visits should I expect? A reputable chiropractor can give you an estimated treatment timeline after an initial assessment.
- When should I expect to see improvement? Most patients with acute conditions see meaningful progress within the first 4–6 visits.
- Do you co-manage with other providers? For complex cases, coordination with a primary care physician or specialist may be appropriate.
What DC Credentials Mean
A Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) completes a minimum of seven years of higher education, including a four-year accredited doctoral program covering anatomy, physiology, diagnosis, radiology, and spinal manipulation technique. All US chiropractors must pass National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) exams and hold an active state license. License renewal requires ongoing continuing education.
About NPI Verification
The National Provider Identifier (NPI) is a unique 10-digit number issued by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to every licensed healthcare provider in the United States. This provider's NPI number confirms their registration in the federal health provider registry maintained by CMS and used for insurance claims processing nationwide.