Pelvic Blocking Technique Explained

What is pelvic blocking in chiropractic care?

Pelvic blocking is a technique used by chiropractors to help restore proper alignment in the pelvis region, to reduce lower back pain.

It originated in the 1920’s, when US chiropractor and osteopath, Dr. Major Bertrand De Jarnette, began experimenting with placing objects under the pelvis of his patients to create leverage. Recognising the significant relationship between the lumbar spine (pelvis) and cervical spine (neck), he introduced pelvic blocking as a chiropractic technique for achieving alignment and alleviating pain.

Could the pelvic blocking technique help me?

Research has found pelvic blocking may have positive effects on restoring overall musculoskeletal function (1). It's often used in conjunction with other chiropractic techniques and therapies, and may help address a variety of conditions including lower back pain, hip pain, sciatica, and issues related to pregnancy (2).

What should I expect?

With pelvic blocking, the chiropractor places specially designed blocks or wedges under each side of your pelvis, usually as you are lying face down. Using your own body weight and breathing as leverage, they apply gentle, controlled pressure to specific areas of the body to help realign the pelvis.

This slow, strategic movement is designed to help relax the ligaments and tissues around your pelvis and spine, re-balancing the body, and improving transmission of nerve impulses down the spine - alleviating pain.

At Equilibrium Family Wellness, our experienced chiropractor will monitor your response to the adjustment, and modify to achieve the desired pelvic alignment. Frequency depends on your personal needs and condition.

Is it safe?

When performed by a registered chiropractor, the pelvic blocking technique is considered a safe, evidence-based method for relieving lower back pain.

Application of the technique is generally painless, although some patients may experience mild discomfort during the procedure.

Based in or near Indooroopilly and experiencing lower back pain? Contact our chiropractic team today to discuss whether the pelvic blocking technique could be right for you!

References:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2780950/
2. https://mjcu.journals.ekb.eg/article_52827_ce6cb4a516ab347ae4996e7c640f00cb.pdf