She.E.O. | Episode 2 - Dr. Rasha Zora from The Pregnancy Bar

Motherhood Blog & Beyond RSS

She.E.O Series

2024 is the year of the Dragon which is supposed to bring Opportunities, Changes & Challenges. In honor of all three of these themes I want to network with as many Motherhood local businesses to collaborate and thrive with! Each episode I am going to interview a local small business owner in the Metro-Detroit area, and photograph them. I am so excited to meet every business that has volunteered to be interviewed, so we can all learn more about why you (and I) should utilize their services to learn, heal & empower your journey into and through motherhood! I am a new mom as of last year and I feel like I am always learning something new about my own body, so I really just want to help get this information out into new eyes & ears :). Let’s get started!

P.S. Don’t forget to check out our full Maternity Portfolio to book your next session!

About My Guest

Dr. Rasha Zora has been practicing chiropractic care for 13 years and currently works out of The Pregnancy Bar located in Birmingham, Michigan. Throughout her career she has treated a wide range of patients spanning from 4-day-old babies to 94-year-old patients. Initially, she focused on addressing common issues like back and neck pain, which is typical for chiropractors. However, she gradually shifted her attention towards pregnancy and pediatric care, undergoing specialized training in these areas to enhance her expertise and comfort level. This training allowed her to expand her practice and cater to a broader demographic, including infants, expecting mothers, and children. Rasha's passion lies in helping entire families achieve optimal health and well-being, which drove her to pursue additional training and certifications to better serve her patients!

Q&A

Q: While you were doing everybody did you see a gap? Was there not a lot of resources for babies and pregnant women?

Absolutely! In my experience, I often see pregnant mothers who come to me seeking relief from hip pain or sciatica. As we work together to alleviate their discomfort, the conversation naturally transitions to their babies and the role of chiropractic care in infant health. Many ask why a baby would need an adjustment, and I explain that the birthing process itself can be quite traumatic for the baby's delicate neck and spine, regardless of whether it was a natural birth or involved interventions like forceps or a c-section. It's crucial for newborns to be checked, even if they don't necessarily require an adjustment, within the first week of life. This early assessment sets the stage for their development and milestones, addressing any potential issues before they manifest later on. I'm passionate about providing this early intervention because it can prevent a myriad of issues down the road, including postural and organ-related problems. By addressing concerns early in life, we can help children avoid these challenges and promote their overall well-being for the long term.

Q: Let’s say you don’t bring your newborn. Are there signs that parents should look out for if their kids are not hitting milestones?

Some signs to watch for in babies include a preference for turning their head predominantly in one direction, indicating potential neck tightness or misalignment. This preference can lead to flattening on the back of their head over time, along with muscle imbalances. Contrary to the belief that children will naturally outgrow these issues, they often persist and can even worsen as the child's body adapts to them. As toddlers or preschoolers, you may notice signs such as a tilted head, uneven shoulders, or differences in foot positioning when walking or running. Additionally, clumsiness and frequent falls could indicate neurological or postural issues that require attention. These subtle signs can provide valuable insights into a child's overall well-being and should not be dismissed.

Q: What are your goals for this year?

I recently embarked on the journey of starting my own chiropractic practice this year, and my primary objective is growth. My passion lies in helping a diverse range of individuals, starting from pregnant women and newborns to the entire family unit. I'm committed to ensuring that everyone, regardless of age or ailment, receives the care they need for issues like neck or back pain. As I expand my practice, I aim to raise awareness about the benefits of chiropractic care and its potential to improve overall well-being. My ultimate goal is to make a positive impact on the health and lives of as many people as possible, and I'm excited to see where this journey takes me.

Q: So everyone can come see you at your own practice? It is not just for babies or pregnant mamas?

Absolutely! My practice welcomes everyone, regardless of gender. It's interesting because sometimes male patients are surprised when they come in, given that the name of my practice is "The Pregnancy Bar." I find myself jokingly giving them a heads-up about the name, reassuring them that despite the focus on pregnancy, I'm more than capable of providing care to male patients as well. So, whether you're expecting or not, rest assured that you're welcome here, and I'm here to support you on your health journey.

Q: Tell me about the importance of Chiropractic adjustments regarding pregnant mothers?

Rasha: Ensuring proper alignment of the pelvic area is crucial in my practice. I focus on ensuring that all the muscles and ligaments associated with the pelvis are balanced and free from tension or tightness. This balanced environment is essential for the baby's growth and movement within the womb. Misalignments or dysfunctions in the pelvis can restrict the baby's movement and lead to issues like breech positioning. Additionally, for pregnant mothers, maintaining pelvic alignment can contribute to a more comfortable and pleasant pregnancy, labor, and birth experience by reducing pain and tension. I've seen firsthand the benefits of chiropractic care in pregnancy, which is why I encourage every patient, regardless of their stage of pregnancy, to consider chiropractic treatment. While some patients begin care later in pregnancy, it's ideal to start as soon as possible to ensure optimal alignment throughout pregnancy and into labor. My goal is to ensure each patient's balance and alignment, with maintenance visits scheduled as needed until the time of labor and delivery. Studies have shown that chiropractic care can significantly support the labor and delivery process, making it a valuable aspect of prenatal care.

Jasmine: When I was pregnant last year my OBGYN never recommended chiropractic care even when I was having bad back pain.

Rasha: It can be frustrating because some obstetricians are hesitant to recommend chiropractic care during pregnancy simply because they may not be familiar with it. However, I find it to be a natural and effective way to support pregnant individuals without the need for medications or worrying about side effects. It's important to note that the adjustments I perform during pregnancy are very gentle and tailored specifically for expecting mothers. The techniques I use are different from those used for other patients, focusing on ensuring safety and comfort throughout the pregnancy journey.

Q: Do you have any specialized training or certifications?

Yes, I am Webster certified, which specifically focuses on chiropractic care for pregnant patients. This certification includes both assessment and adjustment techniques tailored to support expectant mothers throughout their pregnancy journey. Additionally, I have received specialized training in pediatric care through the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA), which I completed a decade ago. However, I am always eager to expand my knowledge and skills by continuously seeking out new techniques and educational opportunities to better serve my patients.

Q: Does your certification expire in a certain amount of time?

I renew my Webster certification every five years, although it hasn't always been on this schedule. I'm currently in the process of recertifying, with my next renewal scheduled for this coming June. Unlike the Webster certification, the courses for the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) certification do not expire, providing a continuous foundation of knowledge in pediatric care. I'm committed to ongoing learning and development, frequently attending various seminars and now taking advantage of webinars, which allow me to stay updated without the need for travel. Prior to getting married and starting a family, I used to travel extensively for these educational opportunities.

Q: What are the most common types of issues that you see on pregnant moms?

The most common issues I see among moms are back, sciatic, or hip pain, which can significantly impact their pregnancy experience. Additionally, some moms come to me with concerns about their baby being in a breach position. Often, they're faced with the choice of scheduling a c-section or attempting an External Cephalic Version (ECV) to manually turn the baby. However, there are instances where these options are not feasible or recommended. In such cases, I've had patients seek out chiropractic care as an alternative. While I don't physically turn babies, I focus on balancing the pelvis and releasing tension in muscles and ligaments to create more space for the baby to naturally move into the correct position. While ultimately, the baby will decide their position, providing optimal pelvic alignment can often encourage the baby to turn, leading to successful outcomes.

Q: How often do you get patients that have breach babies? Have you had any success stories of babies turning?

That's a great question. Over the years, I've had quite a few cases like this, and I'm happy to say that the success rate has been high. I can only recall a few instances where we didn't achieve the desired outcome. In one case, scar tissue from a previous c-section posed a challenge. Another situation involved a patient who sought treatment at 39 weeks into her pregnancy. With only two visits before her due date, it was understandably difficult to make significant changes, especially considering the baby's size at that stage. Nonetheless, I commend her for giving it a try.

Q: What are the most common types of issues that you see with babies/newborns?

In my experience, common issues I encounter include colic, significant reflux, a preference for turning the head to one side, and constipation. These are often challenging issues for both babies and their parents, and addressing them requires careful attention and specialized care.

Q: How do you assess your prenatal clients?

With every patient, I begin by conducting a comprehensive intake process, which involves gathering detailed information about their medical history, including any past illnesses, current health status, and lifestyle habits. This thorough understanding helps me tailor my approach to suit their specific needs. Following the intake, I proceed with a thorough examination to assess their condition. When it comes to prenatal care, a key technique I employ is the Webster technique, which is specially designed to address the unique needs of expectant mothers.

Q: What techniques or special equipment do you employ?

For my pregnant patients, I provide specialized pregnancy pillows during their chiropractic sessions. These pillows are designed with a cut-out section to accommodate the belly, allowing them to lie face down comfortably—a rare luxury during pregnancy. As they progress into the third trimester and their belly grows larger, I stack two of these pillows to provide additional support and space. This setup enables me to effectively work on their sacrum or pelvis while they remain in a comfortable lying position.

Q: What are a few common treatments you use to treat prenatal clients?

In my practice, I offer adjustments using both manual techniques and adjusting tools, ensuring a low-force and precise approach tailored to each patient's needs. Additionally, I incorporate a variety of muscle work techniques, including scraping with a metal tool to relieve muscle tension and knots, which proves particularly effective for addressing issues related to c-section scars. For patients experiencing back pain or significant pubic discomfort due to pregnancy, I often utilize Kinesio taping to provide additional support and relief. Looking ahead, I aim to expand my services to include cupping therapy, further enhancing the range of treatment options available to my patients.

Q: For babies, what are the different techniques you use?

Treating babies and infants requires an incredibly gentle touch compared to working with adults. I apply very light pressure, akin to checking the ripeness of an avocado—it's barely noticeable. Similarly, when performing cranial work, I use the same delicate touch. Many times, babies who consistently favor one side while sleeping may develop a flat spot on their head. In such cases, I employ light pressure techniques, gently manipulating their bones in specific directions to restore balance. This approach is increasingly common and has proven effective in addressing issues early on in a baby's development.

Q: How do you educate your clients?

As soon as I have a pregnant patient, I make it a priority to discuss the importance of having their baby checked within the first week after birth. It's crucial to address any potential issues early on, rather than waiting for symptoms to escalate. Babies don't have to suffer from colic for weeks or months without relief. If a baby is crying excessively, there's usually a reason behind it, even if it's not immediately apparent. While colic is often used as a catch-all term for excessive crying, it's essential to uncover the underlying cause of the discomfort to provide effective treatment and relief.

Q: Do you give clients stuff to take home?

Absolutely! The first visit is quite comprehensive and typically lasts about an hour. During this time, I cover a range of topics tailored to the individual's needs. This includes providing nutritional advice and ensuring they're taking the necessary prenatal vitamins if they're pregnant. I also inquire about their exercise routine, emphasizing the importance of stretching and offering specific stretches appropriate for their stage of pregnancy. Additionally, I discuss ergonomic considerations, especially for those who work at a desk. I advise against slouching in chairs or couches, as it can restrict pelvic mobility. Instead, I recommend using a birthing ball as a seating alternative to promote better posture and pelvic alignment.

Q: What is the most important aspect of treating prenatal clients?

My goal is for my patients to feel good, comfortable, and ultimately have healthy babies. I aim for a non-invasive approach, keeping the process as natural as possible. Many of my patients share this desire for a natural approach, which is important for both them and me. It's about promoting overall well-being and ensuring a positive experience for both mother and baby.

Q: Tell me about a previous client success story.

One memorable case that stands out to me is a more recent one involving a second pregnancy. The patient was anxious due to complications during her first birth and had been experiencing lingering hip pain. Her doctor advised against vaginal birth due to her hip issues, leading her to believe it wasn't possible. I reassured her, emphasizing that she had done it once before and we could explore options together. After assessing her, I found her hips were functioning well, and we worked to alleviate her hip pain. Following the birth, she returned just five days later, ecstatic about her pain-free experience. Another notable case involved a newborn from a repeat patient. At eight weeks old, the baby's head was misshapen with flat spots at the back and bulging at the front, affecting all cranial bones. Through muscle release and cranial work, we gradually reshaped the baby's head over several months of regular visits. Initially recommended a helmet by the pediatrician, the need for one was eventually dismissed as the baby's neck mobility improved, and exercises aided in cranial bone alignment.

Q: Describe your average day with clients

My typical day at the office involves seeing patients, with new patients receiving extra time for their initial consultation. I prioritize treating my patients and providing them with education about their health. Additionally, I dedicate time to building my social media presence, where I share information about my practice and how chiropractic care can benefit individuals. I often create educational reels on social media to offer free insights into various health topics. Sometimes, I hesitate to post content that seems like common sense to me, but I'm often surprised by how many people find it helpful. If I believe it can benefit others, I make sure to share it to provide valuable information to my audience.

Q: What advice would you give someone looking to start their own chiropractic practice?

I've recently embarked on this journey! Despite practicing for 13 years, owning my own practice had always been a dream. The idea seemed daunting, especially considering the clinical and business aspects. Working for someone else felt comfortable, but I reached a point where I craved growth and challenge. My advice? Don't settle into comfort too easily. While it may feel nice initially, it doesn't foster personal or professional development. If I hadn't pushed myself out of my comfort zone, I wouldn't have crossed paths with you! It's only been two months since I struck out on my own, and I already feel like I've grown tremendously. Taking the leap has been incredibly rewarding. Additionally, I'd suggest starting with minimal equipment and overhead. All you really need are your hands and a table. Begin small and gradually build up from there.

Get In Contact with Dr. Zora’s Practice

If you're interested, you can visit Dr. Zora’s instagram where you'll find out lots of free tips and tricks! She is a licensed chiropractor who specializes in treating pregnant mothers and newborns. She recently fulfilled her long-standing dream of opening her own practice just two months ago. With 13 years of experience in the field, Dr. Zora's decision to strike out on her own was motivated by a desire for personal and professional growth. She is located inside of The Pregnancy Bar in Birmingham, Michigan.

Jasmine Robertson

Owner - Two Wild Souls Photography