Which statement is true about Dr. Fabry's use of HVLA in pregnant patients?

• A. HVLA is the primary technique used
• B. HVLA is rarely used; soft tissue, hips and sacrum are preferred
• C. HVLA is contraindicated in pregnancy
• D. HVLA is used only in the first trimester

Answer: (B)

Pregnancy changes how the body moves and heals. Hormonal effects loosen ligaments, and the growing uterus shifts the spine and pelvis, making high-velocity thrusts less safe. Because of this, practitioners generally avoid HVLA during pregnancy and rely on gentler, non-thrust techniques. Soft tissue work helps release muscle tension, while careful mobilization of the hips and sacrum supports pelvic alignment without delivering quick spinal thrusts. These methods can be performed in positions that are comfortable and safe for pregnant patients and can be adapted as the pregnancy progresses.

So, HVLA is not the primary approach, and it isn’t outright contraindicated, but it’s rarely used in pregnancy in favor of safer, softer techniques that target the same areas.